The areas designated ‘TOWN CENTRE’ are the City’s main retailing and commercial centres outside the City Centre that serve surrounding residential districts. Their designation is based on the size and range of their retail function, their accessibility by public transport, and their importance as principal community focal points. They generally also support residential populations living both within, and on the edge of, the centres. Under the sequential approach to site selection, they are, together with the City Centre and local centres, the preferred location for retail development; and, together with the City Centre, the preferred location for commercial leisure development. In considering proposed developments, the Council will give priority to: improving the quality of the environment in town centres; enhancing the vitality and viability of their retailing function and protecting the amenity of their residents.