Welshpool has made its mind up over plans to create even more shopping units on the Spar Car Park, and it is an overwhelming snub to developers.
More than 75% of Welshpool residents who showed up at Tuesday’s public consultation said they were against plans to convert the Spar Car Park into retail units.
Many felt the developers have lost touch with what’s going on nationally with retailers suffering from the recession and many fear a white elephant with empty units.
One summed up the feeling by telling us: “Welshpool wants to build units at a time when everywhere else is struggling and closing down? We were told the units next to Tesco would be open by now and look at them, still dormant. This is a project too far for the town but it is too late when it is done so I am surprised more people haven’t made the effort to come down.”
Somewhat surprisingly, only 208 forms were filled in by residents – less than 3% of the town’s population - sparking fears of apathy amongst residents towards big development schemes which seem to happen anyway.
The results will be considered by the town council at its January meeting. Councillors rejected the initial proposal and asked for the Plan B to be put out to the public. Based on Tuesday’s feedback, it seems unlikely they will change their mind.