Right time for an overhaul

IN the wake of the hugely successful and equally entertaining London 2012 Olympics and the subsequent desire to build on that success, what better time to focus some attention on our very own Clayton playing fields?

Now is the time to direct some energy into providing changing facilities to match the excellent playing pitches at the Clayton site.

What an opportunity for Oldham Council to demonstrate its commitment to this fine site, which has brought lots of pleasure to literally thousands of sportsmen and women — mainly footballers — down the years.

As a footballer, referee and reporter for the past 30-odd years at Clayton, I think it shameful that the previous changing facilities have not been replaced.

Over the past decade or so, those same sports participants who use Clayton have had to endure the degradation of changing in cars and other vehicles, often in full view of the public and without showering facilities.

It is not good enough that proper changing facilities have been absent for so long.

An opportunity here, also, for Oldham Council to hit back at recent national ratings which place Oldham too low for comfort in the amenities league.

What potential there is at Clayton Playing Fields.

And what potential there is here for council leader Jim McMahon and his team to build on their already impressive work around the borough.




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