SLIP: TAKE THE PLUNGE!

08 April 2005

Although dangerous and rightly banned, diving into the Marina used to be a source of entertainment for many youngsters. Onlookers also enjoyed the occasion because there is nothing better than to see people having fun. Such enjoyment could continue for decades, and for little cost, by making the Slip Bridge a diving platform.If put end on into the sea, a few yards the other side of the tidal range and near to its original position, shuttering could be attached to the sides. The interior could then be filled with concrete. This would create shallow and deep diving options at either end. In addition, slides could be fixed to the apex for the use of toddlers when the tide was out, making it an all-day attraction.The stone supports could also be used as diving platforms in selected areas of the beach as an alternative to the present diving opportunity, which is a mere four-foot stormwater pipe.Swansea could then claim to be the only beach in the area, and perhaps the UK, with diving structures. Such a distinction would be an attraction for many, young and old.If the bridge is used elsewhere, the council should at least consider creating diving facilities. Concrete walls jutting out into the sea would be sufficient and would also act as an aid to erosion prevention.Youngsters could then have more fun using the beach instead of being continually banned from this and that. Such structures would also alleviate the pressure on Blackpill.

Harry LewisGomer Road, Swansea