The past few weeks have probably been the most difficult in my life.  As many of you will be aware I voted against the decision to put £3.6 million into the  provision of a sports centre for Malton School, amidst a furore of verbal abuse and  insults. As the champion for young people it was anticipated that I would support such a decision, however, no one actually asked me and the statement that follows fully explains why I voted as I did.

Natalie Warriner.

Statement from Natalie Warriner

          I feel that is now vital that everyone, particularly our young people are absolutely clear about my recent decision not to support the proposal for Malton School Sports Development as it stands.

          It would have been very easy to say yes, especially in view of the numbers of public at the meeting. However, there is a much bigger picture in terms of on costs and inflation margins. I have never known a project of this size that has been delivered on original costing, and in fact as inflation spirals it is likely to escalate beyond anyone’s expectations. Inflation that could in the future become a burden to every single person in our community.

          When one becomes chairman, it is a role that enables and indeed encourages complete understanding of the management and delivery for the whole of the district. That information brings with it much responsibility for the community who contributes and expects certain standards of service. Government imposes certain constrains on how we spend our money and the Audit Commission insist that we retain a percentage of reserves for emergencies.

          Millions of pounds have been bandied about like so much flotsam, and in some cases, irresponsibly in my view.

          I am very heartened that Mr. Williams has taken a positive view from all this and is busy gathering financial and good will to enable delivery of a Sports facility at the School. I know, having spoken to many young people in the District, that they also would like additional sports and leisure facilities in their various towns and villages, facilities that would cost very little in comparison, but would enable improved sport and recreation opportunities in their various areas. Living a rural area always presents access problems for everyone and let’s remember the intention of this facility was to be a community facility and not just for young people.

          I cannot tell you how hurt and bewildered I feel about the level of personal attack on me. I have always done my best for Ryedale and have been honoured to be the Chairmen and Young Peoples Champion.

          Were those young people to declare a lack of confidence in me, I would very seriously reconsider my position in that particular role. However, I have not received any indication of that, and although I realize it will be very hard to continue to progress with them and some colleagues, there are too many forward plans to let my personal feelings overrule good sense.

          Everyone knows that I am always willing to sit around a table to discuss and assist where possible any initiatives, and this has not changed. What I cannot countenance is that Ryedale take the very large financial burden that is suggested.  If we were a part and not the main funder, I am sure there could be a way forward.

Thank you.

Natalie Warriner MBE, Chairman of Ryedale District Council.