IMAGINE this scene... the centre of Worcester no longer cut off from the River Severn but flowing down to meet its historic artery; a hotel, or even well-designed homes, on the WRI site; a new arts centre in the Butts; a "cultural village" of shops and homes in the vicinity.

These are the sorts of images we've kept in mind since the first tentative thoughts about the redevelopment of the city's St Clement's Gate area were given voice.

That 55-acre site - running from the city centre towards the Severn - is vital to the continuing growth of Worcester. Our already attractive environment would only be improved by its revitalization.

So we can, to some extent, share the city council's disappointment that only four out of 87 households in the area responded to its consultation about the riverside regeneration.

But we'd also suggest that the authority shouldn't be too downhearted. A total of 16 per cent of those people and organisations who were asked their views did offer their opinions.

Worcester Civic Society, Worcester Tourism Association and English Heritage were among those who spoke up - and their judgements carry considerable weight.

Broadly, those who aired their views were in favour of the rejuvenation of St Clement's Gate, though views differed about how it should be accomplished.

What's needed now is for city councillors to keep in mind that Worcester must be bold and confident about its future.

At a time when other towns and cities in the Midlands are thrusting ahead with imaginative plans to attract tourists and offer the residents the best facilities they can, Worcester cannot afford to be left behind.

A continued commitment to the renewal of St Clement's Gate will be an important statement of intent in the early years of the 21st Century. In this case, vision matters.