THE plan to redevelop the Priory quarter of St Neots should make more of the riverside frontage for the benefit of everyone, councillors were told last week. During a meeting last Wednesday to look at the regeneration of the area, St Neots Town Council an

THE plan to redevelop the Priory quarter of St Neots should make more of the riverside frontage for the benefit of everyone, councillors were told last week.

During a meeting last Wednesday to look at the regeneration of the area, St Neots Town Council and the district council discussed a controversial blueprint for redevelopment.

The blueprint was labelled by some councillors as disappointing after it stated the site was right for housing, bars and restaurants, but wrong for a cinema.

At the meeting, David Piggott, of CB Richard Ellis, who worked on the report gave a presentation outlining his findings.

He said the area would have to include town council offices, a public meeting room/hall, community contact centre, enhanced library and provisions for the voluntary sector.

However, he again said the location would be prime housing land - a route the town councillors are adamant not to follow.

Cllr Paul Ursell said: "I would personally not like to see residential housing on the site. This is a major entertainment venue in the area and is a very popular facility."

Cllr Barry Chapman added: "I'm absolutely totally against developing this site. The concept of knocking down the Priory Centre and putting up flats will do nothing for St Neots. I think the best option for this town is to keep the Priory Centre."

Steve Ingram, head of planning at HDC, said: "I do not think anyone is promoting knocking down this building. I think something should be done to maximum the riverside for the benefit of everyone."

Mr Piggott went on to say that were was "uncertain demand for a cinema" in St Neots and that match funding would be needed for a cinema to work in the town.

Mr Ingram added: "St Neots is at a really exciting stage and now it is about coming up with ideas to realise the opportunities."

INFORMATION: Would what you like to see in the Priory area of St Neots or what do you think the town is lacking? Send your views to: editor@huntspost.co.uk or write to: The Hunts Post, 30 High Street, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 3TB.