Concerns were raised by Braintree traders at a meeting last night regarding the proposed development of the town centre into a continental-style layout.

The cafe culture development, to begin this week, will see the complete renovation of the Market Square area.

It will involve new pavements, a different road layout and special licences for tables and chairs outside food outlets.

Traders said they feared outside drinking provisions would attract binge drinkers and lead to an increase in town centre vandalism.

Braintree councillor Michael Gage, chairing the meeting, said police would be alerted to the possibility of increased vandalism.

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Published Thursday, January 13, 2005

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