A new vision for Golden Square is taking shape (From Warrington Guardian)

A new vision for Golden Square is taking shape

THE multi-million pound transformation of Warrington town centre will be complete in just 20 months' time.

And shoppers have been given the latest exclusive look inside thanks to the Warrington Guardian.

This artist's impression shows how the centre is shaping up and, with big names such as Debenhams already signed up, the project is really gaining momentum.

New Golden Square manager, David Allinson, says he is excited, not only about the future but what's in store for the next few months as well.

He said: "My role now is about the next 20 months. We have got a very structured promotional strategy in place. There is plenty going on during the summer, then it will be Christmas and then it will be Easter. I am hoping that all the retailers will be able to maximise the next 20 months."

He added: "I am very keen to maximise as much as possible the experience that customers have when they use the square. But people can see something happening now and this is something that will be a going up very quickly. It will be a great achievement when it is done."

And he explained that when the new centre is open, the promotions will continue - such as offering free parking for special occasions.

Rupert Wood, development manager at Lend Lease, said: "We are on target with the construction programme and met our second major milestone for the project on July 20, which was the handover of the temporary bus station.

"We are starting the third phase of a five-phase construction programme; demolition of the existing bus station.

"We are also continuing with the structural works where Debenhams is to be located on the north west of the site.

"We are on target to complete works by March 2007 and are very pleased with the partnership development with local stakeholders, the Town Centre Warrington Partnership, in making sure that the construction and the project moves forward on programme, and causes as little disruption as possible - bearing in mind that it is a significant development within the town centre."