Feuding councillors will tonight decide the fate of Colchester's controversial redevelopment masterplan.

Looking to the future - a model of Colchester's new multi-million pound art gallery

The Colchester Council special meeting has been billed as "turbulent" by leaders expected to clash. The Liberal Democrat group will be calling for a final session of consultation.

Liberal Democrat group leader Colin Sykes (Lib Dem, Stanway) said his party would also put forward an amendment for three changes to the multi-million pound St Botolph's revamp masterplan.

Labour group leader Tim Young also wants three amendments.

However, Conservative leader of the council, John Jowers, said: "The meeting is not dealing with finance or supporting issues. It is purely on the masterplan.

"People don't like any form of change but it's part of democracy. It could be lovely."

Council officers have recommended that councillors approve the plan, which will be used as planning guidance for the development of the quarter.

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Published Thursday, February 24, 2005

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