WYRE Forest District Council leader John Simmonds says of Kidderminster Town Hall that it is "nice, well used and there are alternatives", and says of the proposed revamp: "I don't like it and I don't think it is necessary" (Shuttle/Times and News September 30).

He concedes only that work is necessary to meet the new regulations regarding access for people with disabilities.

The mere fact that a building might be considered "nice" should not prevent us from improving it, and the architect's impression makes it quite clear that the overall character of the music room will not be lost.

As for there being "alternatives" I would be most grateful if Councillor Simmonds could explain where they might be found in Wyre Forest.

Stourport Civic Centre, Rose Theatre, Glades Arena are very different venues, each suitable for different things, and could only be considered as "alternatives" in a very basic sense.

Some of the proposed work may not be strictly "necessary" at this moment, but it would create a performance centre that could welcome and cater for a wide range of groups and activities, leading to the town hall being genuinely "well used" by not only the people of Wyre Forest but groups and individuals from across the Midlands and beyond.

It would be a huge boost for the artistic life of the area (not to mention the extra revenue such increased use would generate for the district council).

The cost before fees and VAT is quoted as £3.16 million which, I believe, will prove to be money well spent.

Councillor Pauline Hayward worries that the cost may "double and treble" - something one is right to worry about, but the council should be strong enough to ensure that it does not.

Councillor Simmonds may not like the proposed changes. As someone who actually uses not only Kidderminster Town Hall, but many other venues around Wyre Forest to entertain people like him, I welcome what is being suggested and am sure it will vastly improve the town hall.

I look forward to the end of 2006 when the wealth of talent that Wyre Forest undoubtedly has in the sphere of performing arts finally has a venue to be proud of.

DAVID MORGAN

Baxter Avenue

Kidderminster