A CALL for Saltash to be regenerated and given a 'Cornish feel' has emerged from a consultation with the public, in which many residents criticised the current 'unattractive appearance' of the town centre.

Such points of view emerged from questionnaires compiled during recent consultations at Saltash college and the Guildhall.

The survey also shows that within the town centre there is a distinct conflict between pedestrians and traffic, a poor range of shopping facilities and information and marketing which falls below the standards expected. The lack of national retailers, and of community space, was also highlighted by shoppers.

The views were not all critical, however. Parking provision was said to be good, and both free on-street and low cost car parks were deemed a great asset.

The exhibitions were part of a study by Atlantic Consultations on the regeneration of the town, with a focus on Fore Street. A total of 220 residents attended the events, and 80 completed the questionnaires.

It was agreed new signage at Carkeel roundabout and the Tamar Bridge was a necessary improvement.

Also mentioned by the consultants and met with approval by the public were enhancement of Lower Fore Street premises, carrying through the Brunel museum project, environmental improvements, traffic calming and car parking improvements in Fore Street and Lower Fore Street and the waterfront areas.

A Cornish traditional style proved most popular for the town centre.

Asked what type of products and services people would like in Fore Street, suggestions from the public included music/CD shops, clothes shops, Tamar Valley produce, and plants. The provision of a street market seemed to be a popular request from 87.5% of respondents.