Hatfield regeneration

SIR – With regards to St Modwen stating that they have not turned their backs on the Hatfield regeneration scheme, perhaps they along with Cllr John Dean could explain why there has never been any marketing done on the said scheme. I have done some of my

SIR - With regards to St Modwen stating that they have not turned their backs on the Hatfield regeneration scheme, perhaps they along with Cllr John Dean could explain why there has never been any marketing done on the said scheme.

I have done some of my own research by phoning around various well known high street chains. Plus there is the lack of any adverts and or marketing in Estates Gazette where such schemes are usually promoted. Having paid £6m for the town centre, St Modwen were to make £20m just from the sale of the flats that were planned above the stores, let alone the sale of any retail outlets.

So is it the real truth that due to the possible housing slump they feel they cannot continue? But then again they are still planning future regenerations around the UK.

We need answers not secret meetings.

Dean Archer, Action Hatfield.

SIR - In response to several letters about the town centre redevelopment, I would like to reassure everyone that the council is doing everything in its power to progress the redevelopment, but the uncertain economic factors facing the whole country have impacted on retailers committing to new retail outlets, not only in Hatfield but nationally.

We continue to be totally committed with our partners to the Hatfield town centre scheme, and meetings between Welwyn Hatfield Council, St Modwen and English Partnerships are ongoing to establish how best to deliver the scheme during this period of economic uncertainty.

Another element we are currently working on is ensuring retailers have the support they need to operate in the town centre during this difficult time. To get some initiatives moving we are meeting with retailers this week. We will be proposing interim improvements for the town centre as well as listening to their ideas and concerns.

Redeveloping the town centre is a top priority for the council and we are determined to do everything possible to make it happen.

John Dean, leader, Welwyn Hatfield Council.

Sir - Thank you for keeping Hatfield town centre in public focus.

Here are a few more things that should be added to the Hatfield Action list:

1 The metal fence along the Pizza House roundabout should be properly repaired and painted, or better still renewed completely.

2 Graffiti in the under-paths checked and cleaned regularly.

3 Lamp posts repaired and painted.

4 Rubbish bins kept in order (they are often askew and open)

5 Wood cladding on our newly refurbished library revarnished before it gets any worse.

E K McNair, St Albans Road East, Hatfield.