It is unfortunate that the plan to revive the lower end of town has run into objections from some of the businesses whose property is being compulsorily purchased and from the owners of the Kirkgate Centre.

Bradford needs that development very much. It will rid the city of the jaded 1960s buildings which make Petergate, Forster Square and the bottom of Cheapside such a depressing area. Their continued presence, with many of the properties now standing empty, offers a grim welcome to anyone arriving in the city centre via the main routes of Leeds Road and Canal Road.

If the proposed scheme goes ahead, it will link Little Germany and the Leisure Exchange in Vicar Lane with the Forster Square Retail Park, creating a large retail-and-leisure zone that can only be good for the city.

However, it is understandable that some of the businesses forced to move out of their premises should be concerned for the future. It is up to the developers and the Council to reassure them that there will still be a place for them in the new scheme of things.

Nor can the Kirkgate Centre's owners be blamed for worrying that the shopping centre of gravity might swing away from them. However, their fears could well be unfounded. John Street Market is in the throes of being extensively redeveloped. Ambitious plans have been unveiled for the former Rawson Market site.

There will be plenty of reasons for shoppers to head for the top end of town. The Kirkgate Centre, currently being given a thorough facelift, is nicely placed in the middle to capture their attention.