Cheshire West and Chester Council has signed a pre-development agreement with its preferred partner for a regeneration scheme that is set to bring more than 100 new homes to Northwich.
The authority is working with VINCI UK Developments Limited on a joint venture with ION Property Developments Ltd, to produce a masterplan for Weaver Square in the town centre.
They will develop a business plan to attract external funding, the council said, and set out the future for the site which is a crucial part of the authority’s vision for Northwich.
Both VINCI and ION would work with the council to ensure the views of the local community are listened to during the process, bosses said, adding that this will start in the new year.
The aim is for the Weaver Square scheme to deliver an residential-led development, with more than 100 new homes alongside improved public spaces and infrastructure.
The current Northwich Market is set to be relocated as part of the scheme.
Bosses hope it will also support economic growth in the area by attracting investment, increasing footfall and boosting the evening economy in areas including Witton Street, High Street and Barons Quay.
“The Weaver Square redevelopment is an exciting opportunity to create a new residential-led neighbourhood in Northwich town centre,” said Cllr Nathan Pardoe, cabinet member for economy and regeneration.
“Most importantly, this project will transform a part of Northwich that residents are keen to see redeveloped, replacing tired shops with quality placemaking and spaces that future generations can be proud of.
“We are committed to working in the new year with VINCI, ION and the Northwich community to co-produce a masterplan which reflects the aspirations of residents and businesses.”
A spokesperson for VINCI ION added they were looking forward to working with the council on replacing the empty shops and buildings from the 1960s that were past their useful life.
The new homes would be a “major boost for the town, helping drive its future growth,” they added.
The pre-development stage of the work was expected to take up to a year to complete.
For more information and updates on the Weaver Square project, please visit: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
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