THESE pictures show the future of shopping in Beeston.
Ten years after developer Henry Boot purchased the lease for Beeston Square, plans have finally gone on show.
A public consultation was held at Beeston library yesterday, but there were fears the event was not widely publicised and people didn't get the chance to have their say.
The development of the site will take place in two phases. The first – including the precinct – is set to begin in autumn and finish by summer 2014, to tie in with the tram works.
However, after a long wait for the plans to be revealed, many people who the Post spoke to said they were underwhelmed.
Judith Beardsley, 68, of Beeston Rylands, said she felt a bit let down by what she saw.
She said: "We have been waiting a long time to see what the developers were going to do with the square and it's just not that exciting.
"It's a big project and we want the town centre to be strong, but I don't see anything really exciting in what I've seen so far."
Marion Wallwork, who has lived in the town for more than 60 years, agreed.
She said: "In some respects, it looks like a child has been given some poster paint and told to design it.
"I don't like it – I didn't come in with any expectations, but I'm disappointed."
And Daniel Barton, of Broadgate, said he was worried that not everyone would be able to give their feedback before the plans were submitted.
He added: "I only knew this was going on because a friend told me, but I haven't seen it advertised and I imagine there are a lot of people who will want to have a look because we've been waiting a while for something to be done."
Another resident said he was glad the wheels were in motion on developing the square.
Matt Goold, 39, of Meadow Lane, said: "Something is better than nothing but there will still be the area near the fire station left to be developed – that could remain the same for the foreseeable future."
James Greenway, director of Henry Boot Developments, said he was pleased with the feedback to the plans.
He added: "It's a big project and we're excited to be showing off our work for the first time – the plans have been a long time coming.
"We want to give the square a complete renovation rather than just a piecemeal development.
"We have included modern aspects which compliment the more classic elements of the square. Events like this are useful and feedback will inform us before we submit a planning application in the near future."
