THE public consultation on Grangemouth's £22 million town centre regeneration came to an angry conclusion this week.
Residents met in the town's leisure centre on Tuesday night to hear the final findings. Over 90 per cent of the 621 who took part sa
id they wanted town centre improvements, and more consultation.
One retailer said: "When are you going to consult the retailers? No one has talked to us about this development."
The plans propose relocating the town's library, police station and Talbot House, expanding and improving shops.
But Grangemouth area forum convener Alan McCallum, said: "I'm in favour of leaving the library where it is."
Former librarian Margaret Robertson added: "I wouldn't allow my children to use a library that was stuck away in a dark cul-de-sac where they could be attacked. A library should be something children should be encouraged to go to."
Other people were angry the plans seemed to be handing public assets like the library and Talbot House over to private companies.
"We are selling off the family silver once again," said one.
Douglas Duff, Falkirk Council's head of economic development, said all views and concerns would be passed on in a report to Falkirk Council and co-developers Baronsgate Estates Ltd and Winnex Services Ltd.
"The scheme will change and it will be better thanks to your comments. We will take back ideas and use the information to help shape the final scheme. We hope this will allow you to get a better town centre."
Residents will be able to get their views across again when the proposals go before the council for detailed planning permission in July.
Environment and heritage committee convener Councillor Bob Spears said: "I tend to agree the consultation has been a bit rushed. I don't think we're getting a correct reflection of what the people want.
"They don't want to lose Talbot House and they definitely don't want to lose the library. People need to speak out on what they want.
j.trimble@falkirkheald.co.uk