Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

After years of waiting and false starts, will it actually happen?

Last night, the WC western area planning committee gave planning permission for the Odeon cinema, Premier Inn hotel and various 'eateries' on the old Tesco site.

Concerns were raised about the Premier Inn having an adverse effect on local hotels, and whether there was enough parking spaces included in the scheme.

Speaking in favour of the application, I pointed out that if you go to Bath to visit the cinema or the Theatre Royal, you expect to have to walk at least ten minutes from a car park and so why should people expect Trowbridge to have parking right by the cinema? Anyway, people walking back to their cars might be tempted to have a drink or a bite to eat and thus further help the local economy.

Also, a 'budget' hotel in the town might finally kick-start the tourist industry that Trowbridge strangely lacks. Whilst the town isn't exactly 'picture postcard', it is within easy driving distance of Longleat, Stonehenge, Avebury, Bath etc. and so could easily be used as a base to visit local attractions.