Purvis takes Hub concerns to Parliament (Central Scotland Liberal Democrats)

Central Scotland Liberal Democrats <ian.ogilvie.libdems@talktalk.net>

Purvis takes Hub concerns to Parliament

December 7, 2010 4:24 PM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Given the concerns over the tendering for the new Glentress Peel operations in the Tweed valley, Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale MSP Jeremy Purvis is raising questions within the Parliament. In particular he is seeking assurances from the Government about the transparency of the tendering, the strategic direction of the development and assurances that the process is entirely objective.

Jeremy Purvis commented:

"The growth in popularity of the Hub and thus of mountain biking in the Tweed Valley has been one of the genuine success stories of the Borders over the last decade. From the year I was elected in 2003 I have had constant contact with the operators of the Hub but I also know from friends, constituents and visitors speaking to me that the popularity of the venue has been down to the professionalism and passion by the owners.

"Many people have been shocked by the recent news and I make no apologies for raising this issue in Parliament. The success of mountain biking in the area is of strategic importance to my constituency and in no small part is because of the entrepreneurialism of Tracy and Emma at the Hub, and their team. It has been a joy to meet people who are passionate about their sport, the community and the local countryside and we simply cannot afford for these qualities to be lost.

"I know that the Forestry Commission is a public body and thus has to operate under tendering rules, and I am aware of my role and responsibilities, but I am seeking assurances that the process has been objective, transparent and fair and is focused on what has made the venue the success it is today."