Let me be clear that I consider the decision by English Heritage to list this building to be misguided. I cannot comment on the way in which they reached the decision, as they did not have to courtesy to speak to me about it at any point. I intend to instruct council officers to move as quickly as possible to work up ways of delivering the leisure facilities on the rest of the site within the financial resources already earmarked for the project.

The consequences of the listing of Louise House all appear negative. It may undermine the financial viability of any scheme completely or at best limit the facilities that can be provided. The council has no use for the building and it is unlikely that it can be incorporated economically into the development even if the problems caused by the listing could be overcome. There is a very high risk that any development will be delayed and also that the ability to put tip an attractive modem building will be compromised by the continuing presence of Louise House.

No amount of wishing, hoping or tilting at windmills will change the facts and l do not intend to be responsible for further delays in giving local people the leisure facilities they want at a price they can afford. I have complete confidence in the councillors and officers who are dealing with this matter. The Stakeholder Group, chaired by Cllr Chris Best, will continue to meet to discuss the arrangements for the leisure facilities on the site. I cannot see how involving myself in a meeting with just one interested party will assist in meeting that objective and I therefore must decline your request for a meeting. Neither am I prepared to give the specific undertakings you request not least because they would tend to pre-empt the proper process of decision making which I have to undertake. Neither will I rule out a scheme that retains some or all of the frontage providing it is practical and affordable and architecturally appropriate.