I READ with interest the letters concerning the proposed development in Bury by Westfield Shoppingtowns, but I fail to understand why no-one has mentioned the alternative: "Bury but Better", a town centre vision and development strategy.

This development was instigated by the local authority, who employed a firm of consultants to prepare a vision for Bury town centre which includes the development of The Rock "triangle" by Thornfield Developments, introducing a second major developer to the town centre. From a retailers' and business point of view, this will no doubt sharpen-up the rents, no bad thing considering the competition they will be providing to Westfield.

The proposal embraces the area bordered by The Rock, from Wilkinson's to the fire station, and part of Rochdale Road, as far as the bus depot.

I attended several meetings to discover that proposals made by various bodies had been adopted, mainly providing a better access to the new development from The Rock. I understand that some upgrading of The Rock will be included in the scheme: and not before time!

In the foreword to "Bury but Better" it states: "In improving the town, it is also important not to lose sight of the things that make Bury special, particularly the market". In this scheme, the outdoor market remains in its present position, the only question mark being over the siting of the indoor market which, it states, may have to be re-located. My question is: to where?

The document adds: "There is potential for significant new development around the outdoor market, including a new department store", surely a great point in favour of the "Bury but Better" proposals.

The letter (September 5) from "A Modern Woman" is no reflection on Bury, but underlines that Manchester is quickly re-establishing itself as a centre for quality shopping, something that neither Bury (nor any other town within Manchester's catchment area) can possibly compete with.

Having spent many weeks in hospital this year, where I talked to other patients and their visitors, I can confirm that many people from outside the borough come to Bury market on a regular basis. So I would urge all those interested in our town centre to get a copy of "Bury but Better" from the local authority, and I would also strongly recommend that its proposals are adopted.

ROBERT GETHING,

president, Bury Chamber of Trade.