I WAS appalled to learn (Bury Times, May 28) of the plan, whether it be now or in the future, to spend £50 million to expand The Rock.

The council say that all the money for this project will come from Thornfield Properties but I would have great doubts about this, as will many other people.

Council leader John Byrne states that the development "will strengthen the retail choice on offer in Bury town centre, helping to keep shoppers coming into the town".

What a great pity that Bury Council did not think like that before they devastated Radcliffe, and took everything we had to Bury.

Also, may I say to Coun Barry Briggs that his idea for a combined market, museum and art gallery in Radcliffe really is farcical. It will be a complete waste of money along with the "bandstand" and the rusty nails sculpture at the bottom of Ainsworth Road. I know the nails depict our local heritage but surely they could have come up with something better.

So come on, Barry, let's show a bit of common sense. Stop wasting good money and think about spending it instead on old people's homes and perhaps something for our young people and for schools.

I would like to know how the Conservative councillors feel about this.

JUNE HAYES,

(retired Radcliffe

shopkeeper).