Abingdon could take a leaf out of Oxford's book when it comes to redeveloping the Old Gaol.

The fabulous redevelopment of a similar site in Oxford - the former prison - shows that the right commercial partner can breathe new life into a historic quarter.

Something needs to happen at the Old Gaol if it is not to fall into rack and ruin. The public purse is not capable of funding or supporting a solely public sector development.

As has been shown in Oxford, it is possible to lever in both private money and heritage fund money if the right balance of commercial and heritage projects can be found.

The key, as much as anything, is finding the right commercial partner, one who shares the enthusiasm for public access and sympathetic development.

Oxfordshire County Council did very well in finding Trevor Osborne to redevelop the former Oxford prison. His enthusiastic and sympathetic approach made him some money, but also led to the creation of homes, bars, restaurants, a hotel and a heritage centre that together add up to the most impressive development in the centre of Oxford for decades.

The Vale of White Horse District Council owns the Old Gaol and is the planning authority. It can exert considerable influence on the outcome. It just needs the right commercial partner.