WICKFORD High Street will die unless proposals put forward in the town's masterplan come to fruition, traders believe.

Wickford Business Association chairman Colin Maclean said: "Wickford as it stands is not sustainable. It needs this cash injection."

The ambitious blueprint envisages a transformation of the High Street, including a large public square, revamp of the market and possible pedestrianising to lure shoppers back to the town.

FULL REPORT P18 TODAY'S ECHO

Published Friday, November 25, 2005