THE state of our market towns is much lamented.

In these times of economic uncertainty, it is great news that shoppers in Abingdon are being asked how they would like to see the town centre develop.

But the redevelopment must be done properly and in the most sustainable and positive way.

It is important to bring in new shops and national chains but a balance must also be struck to ensure the vitality and variety of independent, smaller shops is kept.

At least the option for the smaller supermarket will leave some opportunity for other shops to survive, open and thrive.

The option for the bigger supermarket would be in danger of leaving very little space for anything else. Now is the time for residents to have their say before the town centre is changed for good.