The Trust is opposed to the residential allocation for site COL7 (Mill Arts & Events Centre) unless the existing centre is protected or a replacement facility continues to provide a theatre and performance function to equal or better scale and standard to the existing facility. As currently envisaged within early consultation documents the replacement hall would be of smaller scale and would fail to offer realistic theatrical provision. It would likely conflict with indicative strategic priorities and objectives elsewhere within this plan as well as NPPF policy on community uses. The appraisal criteria fails to record impact on community and cultural provision; access to the town centre is measured but not the impact on the centre. Mill Arts & Events Centre is well regarded by local people evidenced by the strength of feeling and opposition to Council plans. It provides local people with access to culture and the arts, also drawing in visitors. It contributes towards cultural well-being, and supports the vitality of the town centre. We urge removal or revision of this site allocation as the plan is further developed.