Rather than build more office blocks in Tolworth, would it not be an idea worth considering to adapt the vacant Tolworth Tower to a place of care for those elderly hospital patients with nowhere else to go?

It would go some way to addressing the shortage of beds in the local hospitals and would be cost effective to the NHS.

The first immediate thought would be the ability to evacuate the building in case of fire.

Modifications could be made to address this concern, but, other than this, the idea has many points going for it.

Each floor could be a selfcontained ward, with its own kitchen, lounge area and perhaps a chapel for quiet contemplation.

Rather than highly trained medical personnel, the staff could be trained in the care and comfort of the residents and would be complemented by volunteers from the community.

There are several local churches that might help too.

On the lower floor there could be an area for showing films or staging entertainment, perhaps even a cafeteria.

There are good transport links, both rail and bus.

There is also plenty of car parking space.

The tower would have a comfortable atmosphere of love and cheerfulness, rather than one of intense pressure and discomfort that, sadly, out of necessity, currently exists.

Think about it – here is an opportunity to really put Tolworth on the map, and for all the right reasons.

OWEN RICHES
Chessington