Small traders in Colchester town centre fear they will be victims of the multi-million pound St Botolph's regeneration.

What's going on? Concerned shop owners Dee Cosar and Alan Edwards talk to Colchester MP Bob Russell about how the St Botolph's project will affect them. Picture: STEVE BAINBRIDGE (38027-1)

They say they have not been properly consulted on possible plans to compulsarily purchase their shops for demolition.

Dee Cosar, of Dee's Kitchen cafe in Eld Lane, said her business is earmarked for demolition.

She bought the business seven months ago when the proposals were not known.

Alan Edwards, owner of the Minerva chocolate shop in Eld Lane, said his warehouse above the entrance to the Vineyard Street steps could also be for the chop.

Both have contacted Colchester Council to protest about the scheme and are urging their customers to do the same.

Robert Davidson (Con, Pyefleet), portfolio holder for regeneration and partnerships, said: "I can understand their concerns as a businessman, their livelihoods are important."

He said letters had been sent out to businesses warning them about the proposals but he thought it was important to set up a visit to some of the businesses to talk to them individually about their concerns.

But he warned that the regeneration will need to work for the majority rather than the minority.

Published Thursday, September 2, 2004

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