FURTHER to comments published in your newspaper from various people regarding the most recent proposals for the development of the derelict cattle market site, I would like to make the following observations on the environmental changes as I see them that have taken place in Driffield over a period of approximately 60 years.
I started working in Driffield in 1944 as a 16-year-old. I married a Driffield girl in 1950 and we left the town in 1955. After many years working and living in various cities and towns in the Midlands, we returned to live here in 2005.
I, therefo
re, feel qualified to give my opinion on the progress or decline on both the buildings and amenities in the town during this time.
From 1945 to 1955, Driffield was a thriving town with a very successful cattle market which brought many farmers into town for business and also to enjoy their lunch in the local pubs.
The main post office in Middle Street North was a well maintained, good looking building with the popular Majestic Cinema in close proximity.
At the other end of town, there was a busy railway station, both for passengers and goods. The sugar mills close to Riverhead was an impressive building with an appealing clock tower.
I do realise that the East Riding or Driffield councillors cannot be blamed for the demise of the railway company, but why have they let the rest of the buildings and the areas decline into a derelict mess? Driffield has changed over the years from being an attractive town to visit to its now run-down image.
At last, the people of Driffield have the opportunity to make some real progress with the proposed redevelopment which will bring many people from the rural areas into the town and a short walk to the supermarket will have them strolling down the main street with the obvious benefits to the traders.
The suggestion that the supermarket should be built at Kelleythorpe is ill thought out. Who is going to drive from the rural areas to park at Kelleythorpe, spend an hour or so shopping and then drive to Driffield to browse around the shops?
There has been notable progress regarding the town's leisure activities and as a teenager who played rugby and soccer for Driffield, I must compliment those responsible for the development of the now excellent sports facilities - rugby, cricket and the forthcoming swimming/gymnasium complex.
The showground supports many agricultural and other popular events and is one of the best in the county.
So my advice to the councillors is: Don't listen to those who only want change if it benefits them financially.
Talk to the majority who are waiting for you to breathe new life into the town and make Driffield, the Capital of the Wolds, a place where people will say they are proud to live.
Frank Dixon, of Easterfield Court, Driffield, writes . . .
The full article contains 496 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
