THE Italian Gardens and Town Square will not be included in plans to redevelop Weston town centre. Council chiefs safeguarded the future of the green spaces between the Winter Gardens and High Street at a recent North Somerset Council meeting. Concerns ha

THE Italian Gardens and Town Square will not be included in plans to redevelop Weston town centre.Council chiefs safeguarded the future of the green spaces between the Winter Gardens and High Street at a recent North Somerset Council meeting.Concerns had been raised over the gardens and square after a Government planning inspector declared development of both should be considered by the council.It was hoped a major department store could be tempted into Weston if the go-ahead was given to build on the Italian Gardens and Town Square.But the idea was rejected by councillors who voted not to develop the area where hundreds of residents and visitors meet and relax every day.Speaking at the full council meeting, executive member for planning and transport Cllr John Crockford-Hawley said: "I do not feel the inspector has adequately considered the significance of this important open space."I understand the reasoning behind his recommendation and fully accept the need to improve the quality of retail in the town."But we need to understand there is more to a pleasurable shopping experience than plate glass and brand-names. "In an age when the nation's High Streets are becoming increasingly identical and shoppers move in their droves to out-of-town malls, we need to retain and enhance that which makes this town different. "Here in Weston, we have that difference in the Italian Gardens and Town Square."But Cllr Crockford-Hawley said he thought the wall between the gardens and the square should be removed and the area re-designed to give it a 'proper continental' feel.