No referendum. That was the decision on whether to ask the people of Colchester for their views on the controversial visual arts facility (Vaf).
How it would look - a model of the visual arts facility earmarked for St Botolph's, Colchester. Picture: STEVE ARGENT (32136-4)
Residents crowded into a packed Moot Hall in the town to give their views.
After three hours of debate and opinion, a majority of councillors voted against an opinion poll.
Twenty-three councillors wanted the vote, but 29 said no. There were two abstentions.
After the meeting, Richard Bourne (Lab, Shrub End) said he was disappointed.
"I am disappointed the people of Colchester are not going to be allowed to have a say on something they thought was extremely important."
But John Jowers, (Con, West Mersea) leader of Colchester Council, said it was a vote of confidence in the town.
"I am very pleased the issue was sorted once and for all. I think it needed bringing to a conclusion, it's the only benefit that I can see."
More in today's Evening Gazette
Published Wednesday, November 23, 2005
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