Working in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council to deliver a visionary masterplan for the regeneration of the existing Weaver Square shopping precinct forming part of an area of some 8-acres of the town centre. The plan is to transform the space into a new destination with residential, commercial, new retail experience and a public services building.
The council acquired the lease of Weaver Square, which is largely made up of vacant retail units, in 2014 after its previous owner ceased trading in 2012.
Core to the proposals are two zones of residential development including buildings of up to four storeys in height, which could deliver up to 160 units in total. The new retail space, redesigned for the site, would be targeted at local suppliers, pop-up food suppliers, and microbreweries.
While Weaver Square currently supports around 66,000sq2 of retail, this will be significantly reduced with the council outlining plans for “just a small amount of proposed retail units” at the site, much of which will be situated on the ground floor of the planned residential blocks. These units will be targeted at retailers which complement the residential development including convenience stores, dry cleaners, and florists.
Key to the masterplan is a public service hub, following similar models the council is looking to adapt in other areas including Ellesmere Port. This includes bringing council services under one roof in purpose-built accommodation, along with flexible space for a variety of uses.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a really special showcase area for our town. Weaver Square, along with the new Barons Quay development, provides us with a unique opportunity to change Northwich for the better and really boost the town and draw people in from the wider Cheshire community.
Brian Clarke Councillor