SINCE word of the £20m redevelopment of Stockton High Street appeared in February, we have strongly supported the stall-holders, business premises and citizens in their objection to the move to shrink, and virtually destroy, Stockton’s 700-year old market.

Last year, during the 700th celebration, the Bishop of Durham, The Right Reverend Thomas Wright, speaking in the town hall as he renewed the market charter, said: “May the next 700 years retain the pride Stockton-on-Tees has for its long running and unique market.”

Yet within 30 weeks plans are drawn up to downgrade it.

Stall-holders and citizens are horrified, a petition bearing 10,000 signatures is being prepared for the council.

More thought and discussion needs to take place before any decision. We should remember the place the market hub played in Stockton’s past and those who are blinded by the instant wow factor of an artist’s impression must come to realise it’s not just a decision for today, but generations to come.

We cannot turn the clock back, so don’t let’s smash it.

One more point on the development. Has the council realised the wind-tunnel it will create opening up the High Streetto the Infinity Bridge right into our prevailing NE/SW wind?

R Harbron, Norton, Stockton.