Primed for a big change (From Warrington Guardian)

Primed for a big change

A PRIME site could be sold to developers who want to build offices and warehouses.

Macclesfield Borough Council said it might decide to sell the Birkin Centre after agreeing it could be flattened last week.

"We believe the best value for the council is to clear the site and either sell it on the open market or find some way of redeveloping it," said interim estate's manager Ian Gillian.

Councillors approved the demolition of the Birkin Centre during a debate at Macclesfield Town Hall last week.

Work is likely to start in April after the tenants have moved out. On Friday the owner of a house next to the site supported the decision. "I have been rattling cages about it for about six months," said the man, who asked not to be named.

The borough council will first assess the risk of flooding from the Birkin Brook before deciding what to do with the land.

Councillors have also asked experts to look at the impact any development might have on traffic in Mobberley Road.

On Friday chief planning officer Peter Yates said the way had now been cleared for better offices, workshops and warehouses. "It's not seen as an office park but very much a mixed-use site," he said.

"It is outdated and in many respects could look more attractive than it does now."

It is not known how long it will take before the council decides whether to sell it.

But those already based at the Birkin Centre site will have to move by April. Three companies and volunteers are now searching for other premises. Tony Evans, owner of Knutsford's Tyre and Exhaust Centre, wants to buy land to continue his business.

He is determined to stay in Knutsford where most of his customers are, but has so far struggled to find anywhere suitable.

"Trying to find somewhere in Knutsford is like trying to plait fog," he said.

"It is a bit of a worrying time at the moment."