Hi, in light of the news about unemployment yesterday (67,000 job losses in the public sector in the last 3 months and only 5,000 private sector jobs created to compensate) I'm wondering whether it might be worth writing a letter or two, something along the lines of Newmarket would create half of these private sector jobs again on its own. BUT I'm not sure who I'd write the letter to (or whether someone has mentioned this already - if you have, apologies and could you point me in the direction of the answer).

Any ideas? Is it worthwhile or will it not make any difference anymore?

With the head of Ossett Academy speaking today as well I think that will also push the issue. Also I know that it has been mentioned the Sport & UPS department at the Rothwell campus of what was Joseph Priestly College, now part of Leeds City College, could possibly be interested in using the facilities should it get up and running as it is right on their doorstep. Though how that would work with Wakefield College I don't know!

Good stuff. Quite ironic if a "Leeds" school makes good use of the "Wakefield" facilities.

Yep it benefits the entire area. Its not just the jobs and community aspect but also the improvement in education facilities that make passing this development a must.

It's not just the education facilities. There is a direct correlation between the availability and accessibility of good quality sports facilities and participation in sports by young people; equally, there is also a correlation between regular participation in competitive sports and educational improvement. According to M Shevill, who ought to know, kids who take part in sporting activity show improvement in their educational attainment that is significantly above those who don't.

The very existence of the community facilities has a positive impact on the prospects of young people in the District; they're more likely to take up sport and when they do, they get cleverer! It's a virtuous circle and adds further weight to what is already a no-brainer.