I READ the Bolton Evening News on the internet as often as possible to keep me informed on events in and around my home town.

The closing of Whiteheads came as no surprise, as, during my last visit, almost two years ago, I visited Trafford Park Mall and stayed at the Middlebrook complex. And I mused to myself that the town centre of Bolton would now go into a decline of the retail sector, as has happened over the past 20 years in many of the small and middle sized towns in Canada.

The shopping malls with their free and easy to use parking are an attraction, especially for families.

Trying to find parking in downtown Bolton in itself was an annoying experience. Those Canadian towns that have survived the super malls, which house 95 per cent of the retail business, have managed to retain a vibrant downtown core by having one thing in common-- a mixed use residential component -- seniors' residences, apartments, terraced housing and single family homes.

A strong residential presence coupled with restaurants, coffee shops and specialty boutiques ensures vibrancy. A different kind of town centre yes, but one that works. How about it Bolton ?

Bryan Hubberstey

Chartwell Road,

Oakville,

Ontario,

Canada.