R HARBRON’S view of Stockton Council’s prospectus for regenerating Stockton town centre (HAS, June 31) uses inappropriate and emotive phrases such as “shrink”, “destroy” and “downgrade” to jump to conclusions about plans for the town’s historic market.

The only plans so far are a broad and very strong aspiration to refocus, strengthen and improve the market and town centre .

The town centre is struggling, so no change is not an option.

To create a thriving, vibrant centre for residents, visitors and businesses demands investment and regeneration. Stockton’s unique heritage, history, market, riverside and reputation for performing arts all give us plenty to build on.

Residents, traders, businesses and investors have various views but nowhere has anyone proposed shrinking or downgrading the market.

The aim is to build as strong a town centre offer as possible in very challenging times. The same old approach will achieve nothing.

As the world moves on, our vision is for people to enjoy a better market experience. New opportunities, such as extra specialist markets, pleasant areas to sit and enjoy activities and entertainment, with better access for pedestrians, cars and public transport, will help achieve this.

If nothing changes, the best we can hope for is for things to stay the same. Or is that what Mr Harbron really wants?

Councillor Bob Cook, Leader, Stockton Borough Council.