EXCLUSIVE By LOUISE HUGHES A TEN pin bowling alley which developers promised as part of a new 150,000 square feet shopping and leisure complex in Wisbech has been dropped. The shock decision was revealed this week by company officials at the annual meet

EXCLUSIVE

By LOUISE HUGHES

A TEN pin bowling alley which developers promised as part of a new 150,000 square feet shopping and leisure complex in Wisbech has been dropped.

The shock decision was revealed this week by company officials at the annual meeting of Wisbech Chamber of Commerce.

"The extreme paucity of market interest in a viable bowling facility has prompted us to look at other ways we can provide a top-quality mixed leisure offering at Cromwell Park," said Jonathan Clogg, development director for Cromwell Retail Park Ltd.

He said the company was unable to find companies interested in using the space allotted for the facility.

And he is now searching other possibilities for a "family-orientated entertainment" venture to fill the gap.

Meanwhile, the venue of the already confirmed six screen cinema is to expand from 680 to 1000 seats with a larger foyer and bar area.

Units for a Frankie and Benny's restaurant as well as retailers Next, Wickes and Pets at Home have been filled.

Mr Clogg said: "Cromwell Retail Park Ltd is teaming up with cutting-edge digital cinema operator The Light to create an expanded and exciting cinematic offer.

"The six screens at Cromwell Park will feature an adventurous and inclusive line up, showing Hollywood blockbusters as well as independent films and with the flexibility of use for conferencing and special events e.g. performances via satellite links."

Demolition work at the former Wisbech Stadium site is now complete with building work due to start at the beginning of June. The complex is due to open in summer 2009.