Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

More shops are opening at the new development.

Shires Gateway is the name for the new parade of 'larger' shops in Bythesea Road close to Asda. Brantano, and New Look are the first retailers to open there.

Shires Gateway provides much needed 'large' retail units and will see a new public courtyard.

Brantano opened a few months back and New Look is also open. 'Next' will open for business later this month.

Trowbridge (and the ex distrct council) did well to attract this investment into the town. What the shops now need is our support. If you can buy it in town, then buy it - don't go wasting petrol by going to Bath, Swindon or Cabot Circus. If these shops are a success then others will follow; if they fail, due to lack of support, don't come moaning to me or other councillors about "Why can't you get some decent shops in the town?"

If ever the phrase 'Use it or lose it' was appropriate, this is it ...