HEREFORD'S historic shopping area has been "dying on its feet for years", the leader of Herefordshire Council has claimed.

Cllr Tony Johnson hailed the city's multi-million pound Old Market development, saying traders in the historic core are reporting increased footfall.

The leader made the comments during a heated row with opposition member Cllr Liz Harvey who, bizarrely, brought ring doughnuts to a meeting of full council to make a point about the Old Market's impact on the rest of the city's retail offering.

"They are there to remind people what they (the ruling Conservative group) have done to this city," said the It's Our County member.

"I hope you all enjoyed them."

But Cllr Johnson said the £90 million park on the other side of Newmarket Street is not the reason many High Town shops have closed.

"The general feedback we are getting from traders is that many are reporting increased footfall," he said.

"Cllr Harvey has completely overlooked the fact that the old town has been dying on its feet for years, and everyone knows it."

Meanwhile, bosses at the development say they are in talks with retailers who would be new to Hereford over a possible move to the Old Market's few remaining vacant units.

They are also marketing kiosk units to "local companies".

"There are only a few remaining units to let; three larger units and four kiosks," said an Old Market spokesperson.

"The centre is in discussions with interested parties for the three larger units - all of which would be new to Hereford - and continue to market the kiosk units to local companies."

One name which could move in is restaurant chain Wildwood which has applied for a licence and outdoor seating area in a unit opposite Frankie and Benny's.

Should permission be granted it would be the 12th venue on the development serving food and drink.