Don't bring politics into Market Place (From Salisbury Journal)
If you have a story call our newsdesk on 01722 426511 or email us. To advertise call 01722 426500.
Don't bring politics into Market Place
4:19pm Wednesday 20th February 2013 in Postbag
I AM very sad to see councillors Rogers and Tomes playing party politics with the future of the Market Place (Postbag, February 14).
There is no confusion at Wiltshire Council regarding the Market Place.
Work has started on New Canal and work will start on the Market Place in March.
The market traders have been told that the work will be done in two phases, first the western side of the Market Place, then the eastern side and Guildhall.
The city council will need to work out how the layout will function while works are going on and will do this in plenty of time.
We will do everything we can to make this as easy for the traders as possible and will be listening to any ideas they have as the works commence.
The granite surface is being sourced from China. Sadly, the UK building industry long ago forced the mothballing of the UK’s granite mines by demanding cheaper and cheaper materials.
We were faced with a choice between Portuguese and Chinese granite, the difference in cost was significant and, from what I understand, the quality the same.
The Maltings is currently at a stage where consultation is being undertaken.
If people have concerns about the site (and many do) they need to let Wiltshire Council, Salisbury Vision, the area board and Stanhope know about them so they can be addressed.
Nothing about the Maltings has been set in stone and it is all open to change and review at the moment.
The development of the city centre and improvements to Salisbury should not be a party political football.
RICHARD CLEWER, Wiltshire Councillor for St Paul’s Ward and Chairman of Salisbury Area Board
gingin says...
12:53pm Sat 23 Feb 13
Goodness knows Salisbury needs a face lift if it is to continue competing alongside other towns and cities!
Shopping and visiting needs to be a pleasant experience and sadly Salisbury slightly lacks a bit on that particular front.
Before anyone has a knee jerk reaction to that comment just take note of what is on offer and the thought should be "how can we improve things to encourage more visitors and residents into the city"