I WAS pleased to read Clr Hannon's apology for the disruption in the town centre caused by the preparation for the installation of the new art work. It is nice to know that he has had mainly positive comments and only 'the odd whinge'. However I think he should know that it won't be the disruption that will drive shoppers away - it will be the lack of shops! During my most recent visit to the town centre I counted 28 empty shop units, including nine in Hatter's Row and six in Cockhedge. These were in the main parts of town only minutes away from Market Gate. I didn't venture into any side streets. I am aware that we shoppers need a pleasant environment in which to part with our money, but we also need a wide range of shops. Or is this too obvious? I now do most of my shopping at the Trafford Centre, not because of the fountains or marble floors, but for the range of shops - and the free parking.

Perhaps the £760,000 would have been better spent trying to entice new businesses to Warrington? Perhaps it could be used to subsidise rents on town centre properties, or maybe it could be used to provide free car parking. Then, once all the empty shops are occupied, and shoppers start to flock back to Warrington, perhaps the town's business people could all chip in to pay for trees, fountains and art works! Or did the egg really come before the chicken?

'SHOPPER'

Name and address supplied