 The Riverhead Centre development caused some controversy as it replaced old architecture with new, as was typical in the 1960s.It demolished much of the old town centre, including the historic Bull Ring (which is now where Wilkos, the Halifax Bank and the St James Hotel are based), and streets going back many centuries, including "Flottergate" (located at the present-day entrance to Freshney Place between Poundland and the market), "Brewery Street" (located at the present-day entrance to Freshney Place between Barclays and the offices of the ), and "East St Mary's Gate" (no trace remains).During this reconstruction, the ornate Victorian branch of the Midland Bank was demolished; a building of contemporary design was incorporated into the new shopping centre.