I AM writing to you to clarify issues regarding the playing fields at the Wembley Academy site.
The fields have been closed temporarily for one simple reason - children in Brent need school places. We must ensure every youngster in Brent can go to school and we need the extra places this new primary school will provide. If we left the site open and unsecured it would allow the protesters an opportunity to further their misguided crusade and occupy the site again.
The closure of the playing fields is a temporary measure until the school is completed in the middle of next month. After that the fields will once again be available for use and can be booked through our parks service. In the meantime the parks service is providing alternative playing fields for regular users.
Peter Moring has known for nearly a year that the build would be going ahead. The council offered him alternative sites to run his football, free of charge, which he has been using. It seems strange that he is claiming we have stopped his training sessions ['Council 'kicks kids off playing fields'', Observer August 14].
If any young people in Brent would like to take part in sport, there are plenty of active clubs in the borough; you can find your nearest club by visiting www.brent.gov.uk/sports or calling 020 8937 3707. I would encourage all of Brent's young people to get out and enjoy some sport over these summer months.
I cannot stress enough the time, money and effort that has been wasted by the foolish, ideological protests against the academy. Brent needs school places. Perhaps it's time someone asked the protesters which they have a stronger commitment to: children's education or their own militant views?
If Mr Moring has questions about why he cannot access the site, I suggest he address them to the protestors, many of whom do not live in Brent.
COUNCILLOR BOB WHARTON
Executive Member for Children and Families
Brent Council
