Have a say on exciting £21m transformation of Winsford shopping centre

Residents, businesses and community groups are being urged to have their say after Cheshire West and Chester Council secured almost £10 million through the Future High Street Fund earlier this year.

CWAC agreed to pump in £11.7 million of its own money.

Winsford Cross

The council's economic regeneration team reports that interest in the town from businesses and investors wanting to relocate or expand is currently running high.

A new market space is earmarked to transform Fountain Court with improvements to public transport, pedestrian and cycle routes.

The project also includes plans for a new commercial centre with 30,000 sq ft of food and drink outlets during later phases.

A new events programme and space for employment and residential areas in the centre of the town are also in the pipeline.

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The council and its partners are keen to capitalise on this by promoting Winsford as a great place to do business.

Multiple regeneration projects are underway and set to be completed by 2024.

Hundreds of jobs are being created at Winsford Industrial Estate which is currently being expanded and improved, with a Build and Thrive partnership.

It will soon provide increased space for businesses to set up a base in the town and provide more job opportunities for local people.

Demand for new homes is growing too as people choose to move to the town. The council is meeting this demand and is working in partnership with developers on several new house building projects, including affordable housing provision.

Winsford Cross

The council is looking to re-establish and upgrade the waterfront and marina to make it an attractive destination to visit, improving its links with the town centre.

The council has committed significant investment into the town and was delighted to secure Government support of £9.98 million through the Future High Street Fund earlier this year.

This is the first phase of the overall plan for the town centre that will deliver sustainable change and secure the future vitality of the town centre over the coming years.

As part of the process, the council wants to hear the views of residents and others on the redesign of the town centre as part of a major consultation exercise which will launch soon.

Cllr Richard Beacham, cabinet member for inclusive growth, economy and regeneration, said: “For a town with a proud history, this breadth of investment in the future of Winsford is really welcome.

Cllr Richard Beacham

Cllr Richard Beacham

"The council has put years of planning into some of these projects, working with residents and businesses, to develop a vision for a thriving mid-Cheshire town with jobs, homes and new things for families to see and do.

“I am so glad that all of this work is finally coming together in a comprehensive range of regeneration projects that will benefit the whole town.

“Our most important partners in all of these projects are the people who live, learn and work in Winsford, so as we look towards the final stage of planning for phase 1 of the town centre regeneration, we want to hear from you again.

“I hope you will help us create a vision which will be the pride of Winsford for generations to come."