by Dan Warren
PROPOSALS to regenerate the oldest parts of Warrington which is currently deemed “at risk” by Historic England are being drawn up with the backing of the town’s civic society.
Future regeneration to the Church Street Conservation Area, which was the original town centre, has been launched as a project by the Fairfield and Howley Community Action Forum.
The project was born out of the development of the old Locker’s site and aims to create somewhere special for Warrington.
As the oldest part of the town, the original town centre and the street most used for public parades and funerals with St Elphin’s church at the eastern end, a difference could be made to this historic area which also includes Cromwell’s cottage and the Marquis of Granby pub.
Fairfield and Howley Councillor Jean Flaherty said: “The plan is to involve all the businesses and premises owners along the street to get involved in improving the look of the street.”
Funds have also been raised to plant a Christmas tree at each end of the street, along with brackets for hanging baskets and bunting. Hanging troughs could also be placed on the railings, with the forum looking out for business sponsorship to improve the street scene.
Future plans include identifying potential small parking areas and provision of bicycle parking facilities to improve access to the businesses and shops.
Cllr Flaherty added; “Eventually it is hoped that Church Street will become an Artisan shopping area; we already have a bakery and a florist, and a few small specialist bars.”
Cllr Tony Higgins,Executive Member for Culture, Leisure & Communities, and Cllr Peter Carey, who both represent Fairfield and Howley are also involved in the conservation project.
John Shipley; Chair of Warrington Civic Society said: “Warrington Civic Society is looking to support this community initiative.”
“The street is an important gateway to the town and its historic pubs should be good candidates for becoming Assets of Community Value.
Mr Shipley added; “Church Street is also one of the Conservation Areas in Warrington deemed at Risk by Historic England.”
Cllr Jean Flaherty with John Shipley and fellow conservation group members Ian Smith and Terry Flaherty
