TOWN Hall chiefs are to be recommended next week to agree terms with two restaurant operators who are interested in taking units in Warrington’s Time Square development.
The two restaurants would be in addition to the Botanist restaurant already operating – when Covid-19 restrictions allow – in the town centre complex.
Borough council officers have already widened the range of restaurant operators they are looking to attract to Time Square, council leader Russ Bowden will tell cabinet members next Monday.
It is now widely recognised that the restaurant and casual dining sector is going through a period of re=alignment, with some major operators being wound-up or being absorbed by other operators. This means there are a smaller number of operators looking for new sites and that those that are seek discounts.
So rather than targeting the larger chains which have been experiencing financial difficulties, the council is now looking at more niche and innovative operators who could offer a different type of dining and leisure experience and, arguably enhance the quality offer and attractiveness of Time Square.
Two operators have come forward – one a quality, family orientated restaurant and the other a local firm which already operates an outlet in Stockton Heath. Between them, they estimate they would provide up to 70 jobs.
Neither firm is named in Cllr Bowden’s report to the cabinet but further details will be given to members in private session.
But both operators are said to set a very high-quality benchmark for others to follow.
The cabinet will be urged to approve lease terms during the private part of the meeting when financial details will be discussed.
