Home / Business and Economy / Chester Regeneration: New Homes and Cultural Hub Planned
Chester Regeneration: New Homes and Cultural Hub Planned
12 May
Summary
- Around 400 new homes and a cultural centre are planned for Chester.
- Phase two of the Northgate development aims to boost city living.
- Consultation events are happening before a planning application submission.
Cheshire West and Chester Council is embarking on the next phase of Chester's regeneration, which includes plans for approximately 400 new homes and a cultural centre. This development builds upon the success of the initial phase of the Northgate project, which introduced a new market, car park, cinema, and restaurants.
The council emphasizes the need for more residents in the city centre, stating the new developments must be respectful of Chester's historic core. Gemma Davies, director for economy and housing, highlighted that the scheme aims to be unique, deliverable, and complementary to existing assets like the Storyhouse theatre.
ION Developments will construct the project, with development director Rob Mason noting a gap in the market for a stronger cultural offering that celebrates Chester's history. The proposed cultural building could include facilities to showcase the city's heritage, a smaller music venue than the Storyhouse, a rooftop bar, and a commercial gallery.
In parallel, plans are progressing for Northwich, where the market will relocate from Weaver Square to the Barons Quay development. The existing Weaver Square buildings will be demolished to make way for new homes. Public consultation events for both Chester and Northwich schemes are scheduled for May, with a deadline for comments set for June 19.
Public engagement events for the Northgate scheme are scheduled at Chester Cathedral on May 12th, and for the Northwich market relocation at Barons Quay on May 15th.
