Letter: The positives and negatives of Peterborough city centre

Negative points

• Way too many betting shops, charity shops, cheap discount shops.
• Parking too expensive for what's on offer.
• Embankment facilities are woeful.
• Market and surrounding area a shameful indictment of the council's abject failure in mismanagement.
• A dull concrete Cathedral square with no atmosphere. 
• Shoppers can easily go to Hampton, Brotherhood, Bretton and Orton centres - now John Lewis has gone nothing to come into city for.

Positive (what should happen next)

• Market moved to Long Causeway or Bridge Street permanently.
• Street entertainment in Cathedral Square to bring atmosphere.
• Massive support for independent shops on the streets outside of Queensgate.
• City centre gym encouraging people to spend leisure time before and after work.
• Riverside amenities, parks, play areas, cafes (Cambridge are way ahead).
• Fletton Quays is a great move forward, but quality family bases: housing in the city centre streets, and green spaces.
• Make car parking more affordable.
• Cycle paths are maintained, but the reality is cyclists don't shop.

There has to be a reason for people to visit the city centre.