A decision about the planning proposals for Harrow Leisure Centre was set to be made yesterday (Wednesday) evening.

The council hopes that after a period of public consultation and some changes these proposals will be passed. It was clear from the start that the new plans would not make everybody happy,but it is vital that the council get the centre's redevelopment right.

The leisure centre is the main sports and leisure facility in the borough and residents are keen to have a venue that is accesible for everyone, from the young and elderly to families and schools.

Sports associations in the borough have voiced their concerns that the new centre, with its reduced size and facilities,will have a negative effect on our sporting hopefuls. With obesity rates rising and the Olympics coming to London in 2012, it would be great if Harrow had a world-class leisure centre which encouraged more people to exercise and inspired the sports stars of the future. Let's hope that the new plans can deliver that.