BRIDGWATER residents got the chance to express their opinions and share their thoughts on what they want to see done with the Northgate site in the centre of town, following Tesco’s withdrawal.

More than 30 people attended the meeting held at the Railways Club last Tuesday.

The Bridgwater Forward meeting, chaired by Sedgemoor District Councillor Ian Tucker, saw concerned residents discussing possible uses for the site.

A leisure development was a clear favourite among those present with ideas of an ice rink and bowling alley popular.

There was also a call for the Brewery Field, which sits behind the Northgate site, to be protected and enhanced.

Cllr Tucker said: “The meeting went really well with a decent turnout and a good amount of time spent on ideas for the site.

“We have to grab this opportunity with both hands and ensure we have some worthwhile development to be proud of and which will be passed on for generations to come.

“With Northgate it is a unique opportunity because the council already own the site but I’m afraid that when it comes down to it they will just be thinking about the money.

“For Sedgemoor District Council to say that this type of development is unrealistic is not acceptable.”

Earlier this month the Mercury ran an online survey asking readers what they wanted to see built on the site – 69% of those who took the poll voted for leisure.

Sedgemoor District and Somerset County Councils say they are still negotiating a compensation payment with Tesco, following the announcement that it is axing plans to build a supermarket on the site earlier this month.

Bridgwater Town Council says it is considering holding a public meeting to give people an opportunity to have their say on the site’s future.