RESIDENTS are being reminded to make their voices heard before the public consultation on sports provision in Welwyn Hatfield closes next week.

The deadline for interested parties to respond to the proposals outlined in the draft Welwyn Hatfield Sports Facility Strategy is this Monday, September 20.

Once finalised, the strategy will give guidelines on providing sports facilities in the borough until 2026.

Responses received so far have complained of a lack of swimming facilities accessible to everyone, the quality of sports halls, and the on-going row over the proposed football stadium at Angerland Common in Hatfield.

Welwyn Hatfield Council has stressed it wants to hear particularly from sports clubs that for whatever reason did not participate in the original consultation last year.

Councillor Tony Kingsbury, executive member for leisure and community, said: “I’d urge everyone to get involved and comment on the strategy, it is really important that we capture the real experiences of people and clubs to ensure that the strategy is fit for purpose.

“We want to raise the profile of sport in the borough, increase access and participation in sporting activities and to maximise the long-term sporting benefits of the 2012 Olympics.”

An online survey is available on the council’s website.

Alternatively, you can receive a questionnaire by post by calling 01707 357174.

Copies of the draft summary strategy can also be viewed at the council offices and at the borough’s libraries.