Contracts signed on Time Square and Mersey deal (From Warrington Guardian)

Contracts signed on Time Square and Mersey deal

11:00am Tuesday 22nd January 2013 in News

A CONTRACT to rebuild Bridge Street and Time Square in Warrington has been agreed at the Town Hall.

The executive board met on Monday to agree a scheme which will see a new Market, cinema, leisure facilities, shops and cafes built.

The council has teamed up with Muse for the work, and an as yet unnamed developer.

Meanwhile at the same meeting, the council teamed up with Langtree in a joint venture partnership to look at developing a big area around Bridge Foot, including the approaches from Wilderspool Causeway, Chester Road and Knutsford Road.

This scheme will provide new homes, offices, shops, alongside the recently refurbished  St James' Business Centre. There are also plans to create riverside promenades in a number of areas including Wilderspool Causeway, Wharf Industrial Estate and Marshall Gardens.

Leader of the council Terry O’Neill said: “We are delighted to announce that Langtree will be joining us on our regeneration journey and we look forward to delivering these innovative projects with both Langtree and Muse as our partners.

“These schemes form the foundations of the bright future we are building for the people of Warrington.

“They are a key part of our overall plans and are set to be economic drivers for the town injecting much needed investment and delivering a wide range of facilities for residents.

“The council wants to give the town centre a new heart and focus and we feel these plans will make it a more attractive place for residents to live and work in and boost everyone’s pride in the whole town.”

John Downes, group chief executive for Langtree said: "Langtree has committed a significant amount of investment in Warrington over the past two years as we believe that the town is very well placed to grow its economic base.

"We are pleased to become the council’s partner for the exciting Southern Gateway initiative as it builds upon our recent investment in St. James Business Centre.

“The area is a prominent gateway to the town and a partnership approach to investment in the area is the key to maximising its potential."

Regional development director for Muse Mike Horner added: "Our agreement marks the start of what we're sure will prove to be a successful partnership, delivering a wide range of benefits for businesses, residents and visitors alike."