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Businesses back vision for future
Traders have reacted positively to an ambitious vision for the future of their town.
Last month the Prince's Foundation produced a vision for Rushden's future which included turning the former Peter Crisp store into a hotel, creating a bandstand at St Mary's Church and developing a new market square by the Wesleyan Church.
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During a meeting about the proposals several traders spoke out in favour of the plans and since then more have come forward in support of the scheme.
Rushden chamber of trade chairman, John Wills, of Wills department store, said: "Five years ago there was a masterplan for Rushden so I was concerned as to why the district council decided to spend more money on this when nothing came of that one. I spent a lot of time speaking to the consultants but these guys are quite different.
"I have to say that when I first came into this I was as sceptical as most people. But prepare to be amazed because I am so impressed and I think you will be too."
Chris Bailey, of Bailey's Travel, said: "What I have heard is a very optimistic and positive assessment of what could happen and I think these gentlemen should be applauded."
Jim Osborne, of Osborne Sports and Toys, said: "I thought the idea of having a market square in the town centre was very good.
"That's where towns developed from in the first place and it would be nice if we could do something traditional like that in a modern way. I think a lot of positive ideas are coming out of this."
Elaine Buckby, who owns Mrs B's, added: "I think they do need to look at the High Street more so we can get some more new shops in. I'm pleased they're looking for ideas to improve the area."
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Weather for Kettering
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
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