THE pace of change in the physical environment of Warrington is quite startling and shows no signs of slowing.

In fact the ‘domino effect’ of initial investments appears to be pushing forward even greater investment interest in areas of the town which were becoming obsolete and potentially derelict.

In addition new areas have been created from nothing. Five years ago the ‘Omega’ development was non-existent.

Today leading companies fill the south site and the north site is close to reaching allocation capacity.

In addition planned housing, new roads and a school are ensuring that these new ventures provide the workers the facilities required. In the town centre Time Square and the Market development are undergoing major surgery.

A retail and leisure concept of high quality appropriate to a successful place such as Warrington.

The Stadium Quarter is gaining momentum with new buildings radically changing the view and the Waterfront concept is coming together.

The next five years, like the last will see huge changes. A better physical environment, commercially reinvigorated and with the residents benefiting.

It appears that the New Town is becoming a New City and it is time this was formally recognised.

  •  LAWRENCE Bellamy is associate dean at the University of Chester's Padgate campus and writes a regular column for business.