MULTI-MILLIONAIRE developer Albert Gubay told Whitefield traders this week that plans to develop the Elms Precinct could be submitted to the town hall within weeks.

However, some who came face-to-face with the wealthy owner of the shopping centre were left with the impression that he would walk away if they did not agree to his proposals.

Around 30 people attended a meeting at Whitefield Conservative Club chaired by Bury South MP Ivan Lewis.

Mr Gubay, the boss of North Western Properties, unveiled his vision for the Bury New Road site which includes a health and rehabilitation centre with swimming pools and running track.

Two other buildings would accommodate the existing traders and community groups while there would be car parking. The main road would also be widened.

The plans would mean demolishing Elms Methodist Church, the Sharei Shalom Synagogue and Whitefield Conservative Club to make way for the re-vamp which extends from the fire station and covers Elms Street and part of the Brand Centre car park.

The Rev Andrew Mashiter, minister of the church, said he was concerned about the first-floor accommodation earmarked for the church, synagogue and club.

He said: "The plans were not detailed and we do not know how the church will fit into the development. We also have reservations about the fact that the whole site could be surrounded by a security fence but we are still there talking."

The three groups were told they would have to give up the freehold on their land and rent space in the development.

Mr Colin Wicks, honorary secretary of the synagogue, said: "Mr Gubay's plans are not suitable for us compared to where we are at present.

"Firstly, the plan has to satisfy the synagogue's executive and then we will put it to our members."

MP Mr Lewis said the scheme, although not detailed, was the "best thing on offer for years". "I think this is a very good outline vision but that is not to say there are not a lot of complex issues to be sorted out. I don't expect the church, synagogue and Conservative club to roll over. "I do not think they should give up what they have got for something inferior. Having said that, everyone has got a responsibility to the greater good," he said.

He stressed that most of the traders had been upbeat about the plans. He added: "If someone had said to the community a few years ago we could have a vibrant town centre with shops, a health and rehabilitation centre and the continuation of community facilities I think people would have been delighted.

"Mr Gubay promised me that the plan is going to be submitted, that the only thing that will stop this is if he does not get an agreement or the council isn't willing to use Compulsory Purchase Orders."