TOWN Hall chiefs at Warrington have approved a master plan for the redevelopment of the Bridge Street and Market areas of the town centre – and endorsed a long term vision for the Mersey waterfront.
The ambitious, multi million £ blueprint envisages a new, more compact market on the site of the existing market, a large, quality food store, more shop and offices, a hotel, leisure development and new town centre library
There would also be a major public open space leading to the riverside at Bridge Foot, including a piazza for outdoor markets, exhibitions and other events.
The scheme is described as “deliverable” by officers – and council leader Ian Marks (pictured) says it should not be affected by the current global financial crisis.
He said: “I don’t think we need worry about what is going on out there in the world at the moment. These are very long term proposals.
“It gives us something to look forward to and those authorities which have well worked out schemes ready to go when we come out of the economic crisis will be the first to benefit..
“It is an excellent piece of work – a people’s vision for the future of Warrington.”
Coun Bob Barr, executive member for planning, regeneration and housing, said: “This is a major step for us and with a vision in place we can turn our attention to making it a reality. The master plans won’t be achieved overnight but now we can focus our efforts on delivering change based on our residents’ wants, needs and expectations.
“Regeneration is firmly on our agenda and covers a wide range of projects designed to enhance Warrington in a social, cultural, environmental and economic sense while boosting pride and sense of community among its people. It’s all about building on our current successes, focussing our services and making a real difference.”
The waterfront scheme looks ahead 20-30 years and envisages major new residential areas replacing Howley Industrial Estate, offices, riverside developments, and more bridges.
The Bridge Street/Market masterplan would, depending on the economic situation, be completed over a five year period.
There would be major environmental improvements in Lower Bridge Street, including a one-way bus system. New shopping would include smaller units suitable for independent retailers.
The Market multi-storey car park would be demolished and much of new parking provision would be relocated to edge of town sites.
Council chiefs envisage that both schemes would be largely funded by the private sector.
