He was somewhat disappointed when I informed him that the plans were not new, and that Ashcroft, who owned the Vancouver Shopping Centre (after Eagle Star/Threadneedle sold it in 2002), had discussed the creation of new retail, residential and recreational facilities in and around the Bus Station/Baxters Plain area.

Early in 2003, there were several in-depth discussions between messrs Ashcroft, West Norfolk Council, and other major parties, and the plans were drawn up.

However, Ashcroft, for various reasons, decided to wash their hands of Lynn, and departed in November of 2003, without having started the long-overdue redevelopment of the Vancouver Shopping Centre, or taking the bus station revamp plans any further.

I have to admit that I hope that the multi-million revamp no 2 goes ahead eventually, provided the scheme can find a rich development backer, as I think that it will be exciting and benefit the town, as a whole.

However, I would ask West Norfolk Council to stall the development until they have asked themselves the following questions, and then overcome the problems posed:

• Why, after three years plus, are there still empty units in the Vancouver Shopping

Centre, which have never been occupied, since the redevelopment?

• Why have new and long-established retail businesses gone bust, or pulled out of the Vancouver Shopping Centre during the last three years?

• Why have we got seven (at the last count), new and long-established retail businesses (Scotts and Stratfords) which have ceased trading in the middle section of Norfolk Street?

• Why is every fourth shop in the town's main shopping areas, now a café or restaurant, and more arriving?

If West Norfolk Council can overcome these problems they would certainly have the backing and support of the other retailers and businesses in town, and revamp no 2 would be welcomed to Lynn with open arms.

However, quote: "Once bitten twice shy", Vancouver Centre.

Nigel Sizeland,
(ex-Vancouver
Shopping Centre Manager 1991-2003),
Dereham Shopping Centre Manager