THE plan to redevelop Swindon's shopping centre must be welcomed.

It will heighten the profile of the town centre and bring in extra revenue.

But, by forging ahead with the improvements there is a danger that developers will destroy the character and diversity that small shops bring.

We will shed few tears at the physical changes to the shopping centre. But we fully back the Havelock Street and Morley Street traders in their campaign to be protected.

Their shops may end up being bulldozed, but they deserve the chance to continue trading in the new development at reasonable rates.