Craig and Frances Davidson, of Clarence Street, Dartmouth, write: This is a copy of a letter we sent to South Hams Council: 'Dear Mr Jorden and Ms Hosking, We have learnt that there is to be a further delay in the decision to build an indoor swimming pool in Dartmouth, Chronicle, April 24. We feel this decision by the council to be shameful. In our opinion it is unreasonable to require yet more consultation and to use a review of leisure facility provision in Devon as an excuse for failing to approve the project. We appreciate that all ­councils are financially stretched and that, as a newly appointed executive director, you may have felt the need to delay a project that did not come with a "must-do" label. We believe, however, that the decision is short-sighted, ­contrary to the interests of the town and district, a denial of the enormous benefits that would accrue to residents and visitors to Dartmouth and an insult to the committee that has worked hard over many years getting the project to the final stage of agreement. We understand the viability of the business case has recently been reported independently again. Of course, nothing can be guaranteed, but the siting of the proposal next to the existing leisure centre will boost ­attendance at both. The health benefits of ­exercise at all ages, but particularly for the elderly, is now ­incontrovertible, while the imperative that all children ­living in close proximity to the sea need to attain a basic ­proficiency at swimming is important. The viability of the Flavel centre in Dartmouth was questioned 10 years ago, and yet it is now a vital feature and receives loyal support from the community; and for visitors to the town it is an indication of the success of the town and of a vibrant community. Recently we were in Haute-Savoie in France, an area and country in even greater ­financial difficulty than here, and we marvelled at the vision and confidence the town and district of St Gervais has demonstrated in building ­fabulous new indoor and ­outdoor swimming pools to replace an older outdoor pool. And all in just over two years from the initial proposals. The comparison with the delays and hesitancy of South Hams Council is stark. We urge our council to not risk the swimming pool project in Dartmouth falling at the final hurdle. Delay until some weeks after the national and local elections now seems inevitable, but we urge you to reconsider the need for delay until the autumn.' l The district council, having been informed that the letter was being sent to the Chronicle, has responded below.