Tuesday, 9.29am - WHATEVER happens to the southern foreshore in Skegness, the Fairy Dell Paddling Pool must remain.
That was the view expressed by the public at a special meeting organised by East Lindsey District Council on Friday, which gave local people the chance to have their say on the foreshore debate.
More than 30 people attended the meeting to put across their views on what should happen with the site, and a lot of people feared for the popular pool's future.
Having been split into groups to discuss key development issues, a representative from each group reported their concerns back to the meeting.
ELDC planning officer Chris Panton said: "As a group we feel the Fairy Dell and the bowling green are untouchables. What goes on the site should be at a low level so it doesn't block sea views."
Coun Phil Kemp, speaking on behalf of his group, said: "The Fairy Dell must stay. We should upgrade existing facilities, make use of the beach and improve sea defences. It would not cost much to put up a volleyball court."
Other ideas discussed for the site included splitting the foreshore between a few developers and creating a park and ride system in the town.
People also believe any design should be iconic but in keeping with the rest of the town and believe there is potential for one of the seafront car parks to be turned into a multi-storey car park.
Gary Sargeant, ELDC business manager of property and regeneration, explained the next step for the foreshore will be to collate the findings from the meeting and make sure everyone has access to the information.
He said ELDC has received interest from developers, but would encourage others to come forward.
He hopes to create a shortlist of developers and exhibit potential design proposals by next July.
* If you would like to put across your ideas for the site, contact ELDC on 08446 601111 or email Skegness.southernforeshore.gov.uk or visit the council's website www.e-lindsey.gov.uk
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The full article contains 362 words and appears in Skegness Standard newspaper.