The Council has decided to approve recommendations for the regeneration of Winsford Town Centre, including improvements to the market and community spaces.

URL: https://cmttpublic.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1985

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: Cabinet considered the report of the Director of Economy and Housing which provided an update on progress of Phase One and the emerging proposals for future phases of the regeneration of Winsford Town Centre.   Members noted that this first phase of the Council’s regeneration of Winsford town centre would be completed in 2025. It was a £22.5 million project funded by the Council and the Government’s Future High Street Fund, the biggest investment in the town centre since the 1960s and made possible by the Council’s purchase of the site in 2018.  Members noted that phase one investment in the town was already having a positive impact, with new stores opening, several vacant units under offer and footfall improving.    In relation to Winsford Market, it was noted that during 2024 and 2025 the Council had met with Market traders to discuss options for improving the offer and traders had expressed a clear preference to remain in the current premises. It was also noted that the Winsford Joint Member Working Group had been consulted with throughout the options appraisal process.   Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation, led the discussion on the item as proposer and the item was seconded by Councillor Stuart Bingham, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhood Pride.   Visiting Members:  Councillor Charles Hardy spoke in relation to the item.   Cabinet members welcomed the update report on phase one and future phases for the redevelopment of Winsford.  They felt the transformation was amazing and that this was just the start and believed that Winsford would go from strength to strength.  They acknowledged the challenges faced including widespread changes to retail and people’s shopping habits and the difficulties within Winsford of the spreading of mis-information which had been unhelpful.  They thanked everyone involved, including officers who had worked incredibly hard to build trust with the market traders.  It was noted that there would be a move from three to five trading days and it was hoped the market would become the heart of the town again.   DECIDED:    That   1)            the positive progress made on Phase One of Winsford Town Centre regeneration as set out in this report be noted; 2)            the use of an overall budget of £1.07m to transform the existing Winsford Market building, improve the market offer and provide new community space as part of Phase One works be noted; and 3)            as part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to Winsford Town Centre regeneration, the Council will explore projects in the North-East corner of the town centre, working closely with the community organisations operating there.   Reason for Decision   1)            To provide an update on the Winsford Town Centre regeneration which aims to transform the town centre for residents and businesses. After an evaluation of options, it is proposed that investment is made to enhance the current Winsford Market to create community space but also improve the market in its current location. This is a development from how this investment was previously envisaged in the reported regeneration strategy.\   2)            The outputs and benefits of the regeneration programme so far are consistent with those originally identified through the Future High Streets Fund bid and have been approved by the funder. The proposal, which is consistent with previous Cabinet decisions, will enhance the retail and community offer in the Town Centre and the following benefits are expected:   ·         Continued support for town centre investment and the completion of the remaining element of Phase One. ·         Delivering regeneration and Neighbourhood Plan objectives to transform and diversify the town centre so it serves a growing population. ·         Supporting the continued sustainability of Winsford Market as a well-loved community asset and increasing its use by the community. ·         Supporting the development of opportunities for securing further external funding for Winsford town centre. ·         To continue the process of removing surplus retail floorspace which is no longer fit for purpose. ·         Deliver the regeneration of the town in a collaborative manner including the full involvement of the Winsford Joint Members Working Group and Market Traders in the development of options.   Alternative Options   The Council could choose not to progress any further regeneration proposals; however, this is not recommended as it could jeopardise the continued sustainability of the town centre.

Date of Decision: July 9, 2025