The master plan for the redevelopment of the St Botolph's quarter of Colchester has met with mixed feelings by traders in the area.
Most agree the area needs a boost, but some have concerns about the loss of parking.
Steve Miller, owner of Miller Stationary, in St Botolph's Street, believes the council is "selling off the family silver" by doing away with the Britannia, Priory Street and Vineyard Street car parks.
"They are relying on everybody putting their cars away and coming in by bike, which is ridiculous.
"In principle it's brilliant, but I don't think they have covered themselves with enough car parking," he said.
Sonia Campbell, owner of Markhams pawnbrokers, in Priory Street, said her main concern was also car parking, but she supported the redevelopment in principle.
"This area is in dire need of development. We are Britain's oldest recorded town. It needs something done."
However, she was not going to hold her breath. "I'll believe it when it happens," she said.
Chris Boys, partner at Allegro Music, in St Botolph's Street, would prefer to see things stay as they are.
He said trade had improved since he moved from St John's Street to St Botolph's Street 18 months ago.
Published Monday, June 30, 2003
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