Letter: Appeal to more councillors to have a conscience over Futurist

We heard, by video, from Adam Flynn, how Scarborough would be deprived culturally and economically of a theatre able to put on big shows, eg Lion King. Not all residents are able to travel elsewhere to see these shows - the expense, lack of transport and old age and/or infirmity being some of the reasons. A rollercoaster ride would be no consolation for loss of enjoyment of on-going locally accessible theatre experiences.

In the end what matters most is the effect of decisions on people. This was brought home to us when we heard from Shirley Shepherd, who lives on Blands Cliff and Ann Rivers, who lives in Prospect Place. On behalf of themselves and nearby neighbours, they spoke of the effect that demolition and the erection of a rollercoaster in close proximity, would have both on the quality of their lives while also putting their homes at risk in the process. Their ongoing strain and distress was evident. Ann told us that just a single test boring had reverberations felt in her home. No-one could fail to be moved by their plight. We can walk away. They can’t.

There have been many arguments expressed for keeping the Futurist over many years. We have yet to hear from the council reasons why replacing the building with a rollercoaster would be a good idea.

So this is an appeal to those councillors who are undecided or against retention of the Futurist, to consider before voting.

If there is a conflict between toeing the party line and following my heart and conscience do I choose the former and live with the consequence of knowing that I was one of those responsible for damaging the fabric of people’s lives or choose the latter as an empathetic fellow human being?

Diana TaskerWeaponness Valley CloseScarborough