IT is a fairly simple and these days not uncommon dilemma. Should green spaces be sold off in otherwise urban areas to pay for better community facilities?

In this particular case it is the future of the rather run-down Southampton Sports Centre, which it is calculated will need £1m in development costs to upgrade.

A new proposal sets forth the idea to sell off some of the land, unwanted it is said, and use the money to finance the improvements.

That some voices have been raised in opposition, those claiming to represent the opinions of local residents, is to be expected and has turned out to be the case. Any loss of green space is unacceptable, is the gist of the opposition.

The problem is twofold. That while everyone would probably wish to regain green spaces, the facilities at the sports centre are falling into decay and, without funding from a council that is being forced to make millions in cuts and shed jobs, nothing will happen.

There is also the question of where we will find the new homes needed for the city if such proposals are not seriously considered.

This paper feels the plans merit closer examination before being rejected out of hand.