THE former grocer s shop in Ely s Market Street is to be demolished after years of complaint about its dilapidated condition. But is all the fuss about nothing? ADAM LAZZARI asked the people of Ely what they think of the shop. Is it an eyesore or a storm

THE former grocer's shop in Ely's Market Street is to be demolished after years of complaint about its dilapidated condition.

But is all the fuss about nothing? ADAM LAZZARI asked the people of Ely what they think of the shop. Is it an eyesore or a storm in a teacup?

Pat Griggs, 59, Little Downham

"I think it's an eyesore. A lot has been done to improve Ely and make it more attractive to visitors, with restaurants and cafes, and this building in the middle of the city just looks disgusting.

"I hope that something is done about it soon because this is just not good."

John Bent, 70, from Ely

"Everyone seems to have just gotten used to the building the way it is.

"It's in a good location and there are a lot of things that could be done with it.

"I'd like to see it turned into a small independent shop because I think there should be more of them in Ely, like in the old days."

Hannah Derrick, 33, from Ely

"I've lived in Ely for 10 years and I think the building has always looked a mess, when it was a fruit and veg shop, and for the last four years or so when it's just been left.

"It's in a great location and could be used for something really nice. I hope it doesn't become another estate agents. A nice independent music shop would be perfect.

"The building has been left like this for too long and it's a real shame."

Mr DT Cross, 80, from Ely

"I understand that something is being done to

the building and whatever it is has to be an improvement.

"It was a fruit and veg store a long time ago and has just been left the way it is for far too long. Something should be done."

Martin Moore, 61, from Southery

"It is about time that something is done. Everything else in Ely looks really good except for that

building.

"Whatever is done to it, I'd like it to be fitting with the character of the city, like a small shop, but not another café.

"I've been a regular visitor to Ely for the last 14 years and there used to be nowhere to eat but now there are too many places."

Pearl Nield, 63, from Ely

"It's been a mess for years and something should be done about it. It's a nice old building with so much potential.

"I'd like to see it used for a small, independent business, not a chain store.

"There are not a lot of places in Ely where you can buy decent men's clothes so that would be a good idea.