BY all means, spend money on Bolton, but spend it where it is needed!

Last week, as I was visiting the Library, I thought I would also visit the Aquarium, Museum and Art Gallery in the Civic Centre - what a disappointment.

The Aquarium was dismal and smelly, some of the tanks had cracked glass, some tanks were empty, and the whole area was depressing. The Museum had the same dismal look.

Perhaps it is memories of visits as young children that remain with us.

On visiting Manchester a few weeks ago, I could not help but compare the facilities there with what we have in Bolton. A free bus to take you round the city, which was available immediately outside the railway station, taking you to exactly where you wanted to be. Clean streets, good atmosphere and excellent cultural facilities.

What do we have in Bolton? A railway station which leaves you at the end of town where there are only a few shops (what difference will an archway make?). Rows and rows of derelict and boarded-up shops, littered areas (see Bank Street), and an open air market where there are many empty stalls, both outside and in.

So why do we need to spend money on a Market Hall which has already had a face-lift, is well used, and is a landmark of Bolton both old and new?

Let's bring other facilities into the 21st century!

Mrs A Cooper

Elmwood Close

Over Hulton