Yet more empty promises

By James Reader

THE campaign against the development of Lancaster's so called 'cultural quarter' hotted up this week with the launch of an internet gallery.

'Desolation', contains stark photographs of over 30 empty shops in the city centre which invite browsers to consider that a 'big box' retail development along Alfred Street would lead to even more boarded-up shops.

The photographer, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "When you walk round a town your eyes are attracted towards the bright, shiny new things. You don't see the emptiness or the desolation. You walk right past an empty shop without noticing. "Does Lancaster need new shopping developments when so many current opportunities are untaken?"

There has been widespread public opposition to the plans outlined by developers CR Chelverton at a recent meeting of Lancaster Chamber of Commerce. The plans envisage a supermarket, a canal-side bypass, and retail units on a central site which has been designated as a 'cultural quarter'  in a 'democratically decided planning document.' The website, which can be accessed at http://www.nephridium.org/lancaster/Desolation/ , was launched by local campaigners known as 'Grassroots Lancaster'.

CR Chelverton representative Simon Morgan has reportedly said he will meet with local people to debate the proposals in the new year. Ridge resident and local campaigner, Sue Paylor, said after a recent meeting with Mr Morgan: "I've told Mr Morgan that I will put the invitation in writing, and I emphasised the need for open discussion now. I explained that the meeting is to allow an open and fair discussion to take place. "I also told him that this is entirely the right time to talk to the public as members of the community have informed ideas about planning, transport and community issues and will be present at the meeting. Mr Morgan said that he looks forward to a fruitful dialogue and is eager to meet local people at an appropriate time - probably January."