I live in Morden, next to Morden Park, and I was interested to read Leigh Terrafranca's letter about Morden Park Pools in last week's paper (Pool plans show how 'poor' council is, February 26).

The Morden Park swimming pool was built in the 1960s. It is an old and tired building, which requires a very high repair bill for the council each year. It is basically not fit for purpose for the 21st Century as it is.

By investing in a new leisure centre, the council can slash the repair bill and reduce running costs. At the same time this will provide local residents with the modern facilities the community needs.

We know from the media that the Conservative-led government has drastically cut funding to local government. Merton Council is tasked with finding £32 million of savings and difficult decisions must be made.

Our local Labour council is to be congratulated for the way in which they are planning ahead and looking for affordable ways to freeze council tax, whilst expanding our schools, rebuilding Morden Pool, and keeping the libraries open.

These are difficult financial times for everyone, but the proposed new leisure centre is not part of the problem.

Susan Liang

Rosedene Avenue Morden