Ms D E Pickett, of Bickfords Green, Liverton, writes:

Parking is becoming increasingly difficult for users of the Newton Abbot Leisure Centre.

On Wednesday last week it was the worst I had ever seen it for trying to find a space in the top car park at Newton Abbot Leisure Centre. It is also used by the school, local residents, and shoppers who use it as a free car park so they can walk into town to do their shopping.

I managed to find one space in Wain Lane, otherwise I would have had to miss my weekly swim and return to Liverton, where I live. It is not convenient to come in by bus, so like many other leisure centre users, I expect to be able to find a parking space when I arrive.

The problem is exacerbated by the numerous developments in and around Newton Abbot bringing in several thousands of people, some of whom will want to use the centre and expect to find somewhere to park their car.

I think the time has come to bring in pay and display parking, with permits for school and local residents, and refunds for those using the leisure centre facilities.

Failing that suggestion, maybe Newton Abbot needs another leisure centre – with better parking facilities.

Perhaps a private company could be encouraged to build one somewhere off the A38 for easy access – or land near the Trago site would be ideal for many people in this area.

As a retired nurse I know that the medical profession is keen to see a reduction in the soaring rates of obesity, which is linked closely to heart disease and diabetes.

Encouraging healthy lifestyles and promoting exercise and healthy eating is something that is part of any community to reduce pressure on hospitals trying to cope with a larger population and people who continue to abuse the NHS service.

Hopefully the inadequate parking facilities will be addressed soon, otherwise the leisure centre will lose people who are frustrated by not finding a car parking slot so they can attend the gym, exercise class or swimming sessions.