BEFORE any decision is made about the future of the Memorial Hall in Ludgershall much more work needs to be done to cost alternative plans, according to village researcher Winifred Dix-on.

Mrs Winifred Dixon, who has conducted considerable research into the village's history, says all the options need to be considered carefully before a decision is made.

Parish councillors have hatched a plan to sell the existing site to a developer, possibly Sarsen Housing Association, and use the money to build a new hall on the Recreation Ground.

While the plan would be very cost effective it did not prove too popular when aired at a public meeting in the village.

"The hall stands on a prime site which would undoubtedly be of interest to a developer, but have we explored all the options and considered their impact on the village?" asked Mrs Dixon.

"Since we have seen no detailed plans or itemised costs of any of the proposed buildings, it is far too soon to be making decisions like this. At a time when land for recreation is becoming scarce, and we are all being urged to take more exercise, should we be seriously considering letting the valuable asset that the recreation ground is, be lost to buildings and car park?" questioned Mrs Dixon.

Mrs Dixon, whose 1994 book A History of Ludgershall provides a comprehensive guide to the village's past, says the recreation ground was obtained for the parish following the Enclosures Act of 1845 when five acres were set aside for allotments and recreation.