This facility has been sadly lacking from Newmarket for too many years. I would be much more likely to watch films at a local venue and I'm sure it would be a boon for all generations.

There used to be the Doric and Kingsway cinemas which were opened before the Second World War. Now, of course, the latest reincarnations of these buildings are The Orange House and Heaven respectively.

The Doric closed as a cinema in 1964 and lay empty for 15 years before becoming a cabaret club. I remember at one stage there was talk of it being turned into a bowling alley in the 70s.

I can't remember when the Kingsway ceased to be a cinema but I'm sure someone will enlighten me.

The provision of a bowling alley in Mr Gredley's plans interests me as I have been a keen ten-pin bowler in the past.

I would also like to add that as an avid rambler, the studland walks around Mr Gredley's lands in Stetchworth and Dullingham are a source of great pleasure and so much better than they ever were when I was a child.

Christopher Aylmer
Cross Green
Dullingham

In response to Val Gallagher and Margaret Cole's letters, I am in full agreement with these writers.

It is high time that the powers-that-be agree to the development of this long derelict site – it would enhance the gateway to Newmarket.

Whether it be a hotel, a home for the elderly or a bowling ally and cinema, just get it going.

I am pleased to see The Severals will benefit from a pavilion courtesy of Sheikh Mohammed's Darley Stud Management Company – a development that will further enhance the gateway from Bury/Norwich.

Our town is crumbling in so many ways – the traffic situation is dire, the market is almost non-existent and shops are closing due to parking issues – that there is a desperate need to think hard about the future of Newmarket, not only for its residents but for visitors, too.

Gwen Dixon
Newmarket