A CALL for a referendum on long-delayed plans to revamp the heart of Ringwood will go before New Forest council chiefs this week.

Some 1,600 residents and shoppers have backed a plea for a democratic vote on two multi-million pound proposals to redevelop the town centre, one of which was submitted more than three years ago.

Many in the town fear the plans could cause far more harm than good, and put several long-established local stores out of business.

District council officers are recommending New Forest cabinet members reject the referendum idea at their meeting tomorrow, but also that the fate of the schemes is sorted out as quickly as possible.

The plans were put forward by Furlong Centre owners UCG in March 2000 and then (in revised form) in July last year, but remain undetermined.

Both would radically refashion the town's core area, with brand new shops, a transport interchange, new-look parking, a cinema and possible community facility.

But they have sparked widespread protests, led by the Ringwood Redevelopment Action Group (RRAG), which claims it would wreck the town's traditional economy. The group wants to see a smaller project instead.

RRAG spokeswoman Nicki Wood said: "We started the petition because we felt no-one was listening to the views of so many people. These applications would affect 14,000, so we believe their voices should be heard.

"We didn't have to try very hard with the petition - we just put them up in eight or 10 shops, and let people make their own minds up.

"It is pleasing the cabinet is looking at it. Even if they don't agree to a public vote, at least they will have an idea of what people want.

"We need something small and more suited to a market town."

A referendum could cost up to £9,000, and officers are urging councillors to reject the idea - but press for the applications to be determined as soon as possible.