Norman calls for regeneration of Polegate

12.54.09pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 28th Nov 2007

Polegate MP Norman Baker is calling for a blueprint to be drawn up to help secure the regeneration of Polegate town centre, warning that if positive steps are not taken in the near future, the shopping centre could go into terminal decline.

Norman says: "Polegate is a nice town, but I am concerned that the shopping centre may not survive intact unless positive action is taken. We are already seeing a loss of trade thanks to developments at Cophall, and the new mini-Tesco on the Eastbourne Road. The engine is already running slowly and may stall. If it does, the town centre could go into freefall.

"I believe Wealden District Council, as the local planning authority, should recognise the need to be proactive here and take the lead in producing a blueprint to secure the future vitality of Polegate Town Centre, and involve the Town Council and the local community. The recent consultation on the council's Local Development Framework has been helpful, but what is needed is something more local and specific which will capture the imagination of local residents."