I AMONG many feel dismayed at the prospect that the Lancaster Musicians' Co-op could be bulldozed.

In 1984-5, a group of young musicians had the idea of getting together to provide rehearsal and recording facilities at affordable prices. The co-op was formed to meet this need and stimulate the Lancaster music scene.

Over 17 years the co-op has been self-supporting, affordable to musicians and has created jobs for its members. Throughout this the Lancashire Co-operative Development Agency has had the pleasure of working with the co-op and its supporters.

Furthermore, the widely-published Lancaster Local Plan envisages a cultural quarter to include the Dukes Playhouse, the Grand Theatre and the Musicians Co-op. I hope the co-op will be allowed to continue and that the cultural quarter will be supported. I write as a Lancaster resident as well as an active co-operator.

Vivienne Shiels Project Officer

Lancashire Co-operative Development Agency Ltd.