Villagers show concern for community and loss of shops with rally outside CPS Centre

VILLAGERS turned out in force to show the strength of feeling over the loss of shops at the CPS Centre in Culcheth.

It follows on from a decision by the owners of the CPS Centre to withdraw a planning application regarding proposals to eventually transform the facility into living accommodation and the eviction of more than 20 local traders earlier this year.

Local trader Aysha Khan teamed up with local residents Bernie Kingston and Gill Stott, to set up a group ‘Protect Culcheth Village’ & Bring Back Our Shops.

On the 8th August 2025, they were three people sitting around a table in the Sundial Community Kitchen at the Daten, deeply worried about the future of the village.
In a joint statement, they said: “The planning application for the CPS Centre had landed with a thud—another proposal that felt out of step with what Culcheth really needs. We knew we couldn’t sit quietly. So, we acted.
“What followed was nothing short of extraordinary.
“Within 48 hours, we organised a public meeting, gathered contact details, and launched a Facebook group—’Protect Culcheth Village’ & Bring Back Our Shops. We hoped a few people might join. Instead, over 300 residents rallied with us, sharing their stories, frustrations, and hopes for Culcheth’s future.
“The planning application was withdrawn on the 14th August 2025, hours before the council meeting. While that was a relief, it didn’t erase the effort so many had made—closing businesses early, rearranging work schedules, preparing to speak up. Over 230 people had already attended our community meeting earlier that week. That level of engagement deserves recognition, not dismissal.
“Despite the withdrawal, we still went to the Town Hall. Not to protest, but to thank each other. To stand together. To say: this matters.
“We’ve heard from lifelong residents and newcomers alike. People who moved here years ago and watched the slow erosion of village amenities. Others spoke of how each decade chips away at the character of Culcheth. The CPS proposal was just the latest example—but it was the one that sparked action.
“Our group isn’t just about opposing one development. It’s about reclaiming our voice. We want to see Culcheth thrive again—with shops that serve the community, spaces that bring people together, and planning decisions that reflect local needs.
“We want to have a visible presence in the community so that our voices can be heard and while we appreciate the efforts made so far, there has been a noticeable lack of involvement and action from the parish council, which has only served to strengthen our resolve and focus on key issues in the community.
“The photoshoot (requested by Culcheth Life) outside the CPS Centre was a beautiful moment. Families, neighbours, friends—all standing shoulder to shoulder. It wasn’t just for a magazine. It was a declaration: we care.
“We’re proud of what we’ve built in such a short time. But this is only the beginning. We’ll continue to monitor future proposals, engage with the council, and push for a planning approach that puts Culcheth first.
“To everyone who joined us, thank you. Your support, your time, your voices—they’ve made all the difference.
“Together, we’re protecting Culcheth.”
By Aysha Khan, Bernie Kingston & Gill Stott, Organisers of ‘Protect Culcheth Village’ & Bring Back Our Shops