Waiting for the Number Nine

Ryan and Brittany wait at the bus stop on Mill Lane, lamenting the rapid commercial transformation of their quiet town.

Waiting for the Number Nine

Listen and choose the right answer

What major change is expected to happen to the town?

• It is poised to double in size.
• It is going to be completely abandoned.
• It will become a protected national park.

What facility is slated to open near the library?

• A new community theatre
• A large supermarket chain
• A municipal parking garage

Why was Brittany not entirely defeated by the land sale?

• She bought another house nearby.
• She refused to sign the final papers.
• She included a secret clause protecting an oak tree and a land trust.

How did Ryan react to Brittany's revelation at the end?

• He was furious that she sold her land.
• He thought it was absolute genius and wonderful news.
• He advised her to contact a lawyer immediately.

Listen again and complete the sentences

• Ryan: I can't believe the council approved those massive ____ for the old dairy site.
• Brittany: It's hardly a surprise, Ryan, given how many ____ have been moving down from Leeds lately.
• Brittany: The ____ are furious, but what can anyone do against millions in corporate backing?
• Ryan: It feels like we're losing our ____ and our entire heritage in one fell swoop.
• Brittany: I inserted a strict covenant forcing them to ____ the oldest oak tree and fund a community land trust.

Sources: photo by Onur on Pexels