More debate on town centre revamp

More than two thirds of people were unhappy with the redevelopment

Major long-standing plans to revamp a town centre are being further delayed after a survey revealed two thirds of residents were unhappy with the plans.

West Berkshire District Council, which came under Tory control earlier this month, says more debate on the future of Market Place, Newbury, is needed.

Original proposals, due to start in the summer, aimed to pedestrianise Market Place and create a piazza.

About 150 people responded to the survey during the past two months.

Those in favour of the redevelopment supported the pedestrianisation of the town centre and the potential of the open-space piazza for activities.

Those against suggested Market Place was fine as it is and that the money was being wasted.

Postal survey

Councillor Emma Webster said: "There is clear public concern about the future of Market Place.

"What we need now is an extensive, representative survey that will tell us exactly what people want.

"Only then will we be able to make a fully-informed decision about the future of this all-important focal point of the town."

There are now proposals for a postal survey of 4,000 people across the Newbury area between July and September.

There are also plans for a questionnaire to be made available on the internet and at council offices.