THERE seems to be a lot of concern that Bolton will lose the Market Hall's unique shops, if the Market Hall redevelopment goes ahead. l gather that this will not be the case.

It has been reported that a lot of the market traders who want to stay are being accommodated within the new development. Those that don't, are being helped by the council to find suitable alternative accommodation in Bolton.

The developers are stating that local and national retailers will sit side by side within the Market Hall, ensuring that Bolton's unique "retail offer" is not lost but also providing new shops to increase the range and variety on offer.

ln my opinion the developers have clearly listened to the people of Bolton, and are responding accordingly by incorporating the market traders within the development.

We therefore get to keep our small independent traders, have new shops to encourage more people to shop in the town centre - and have a restored Market Hall to boot.

This surely seems to make perfect sense and demonstrates an excellent compromise for parties concerned?

Paul Barnes

Plodder Lane

Farnworth