Newark Advertiser reader’s letter: Keep events on the calendar

I note with interest Newark Town Council’s latest budget discussions.

Unless I have misunderstood, it seems decisions about future expenditure were made on the basis that enough new houses would be built to cover the extra cost through council tax.

Surely some thought must have been given to the possibility that there may be a slow-down in the housing market and so fewer houses would be delivered?

Given the uncertainty surrounding our economy in recent years I would suggest that was more than a possibility so contingency should have been made.

We are very lucky in Newark to have some fantastic attractions and events to draw in visitors.

It is a real shame that the council may now have to choose between financing Newark on Sea beach or Newark Festival.

Both are very different events catering for very different sections of society — but both equally worthy.

I wouldn’t want to have to make that decision.

I was sceptical about the beach when I first heard about it, but it brings a great summer vibe to the town centre.

And, although the festival has not been so high-profile in recent years, I always love the musical entertainment and the atmosphere it generates.

I sincerely hope that grants and other funding can be found to keep both events on the calendar. — A. Cloke, Newark.