There’s still a chance to have your say on the look and feel of the planned Chester Northgate leisure and cultural destination.
Cheshire West and Chester Council is running a formal public consultation in the Forum Shopping Centre until 18 April where staff are on hand to answer any questions and share the ideas behind the current proposals. The designs can also be viewed on this site and comments sent online.
To date, over 1000 people have visited the shop to view the design proposals for the first stage of the development including a new market, six screen cinema, public square and car park. The Council has also been talking and listening to local groups and businesses, recording over 800 comments so far in total.
Every comment is being read and reviewed and there are already some strong themes emerging, including:
- A green and sustainable environment and transport options.
- Quality open spaces.
- Opportunities for small independent retailers.
- A modern development that is sympathetic to historic Chester.
- Accessible spaces
The views of the public will help the Council and its architect to shape the design. Detailed designs will be submitted for planning approval in May and will be available for viewing. The outcome of planning will be determined in September 2019. If planning approval is granted, enabling works will start on site in October ensuring essential services are in place for the development to be built.
The Council’s Director for Commercial Management, Graham Pink, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who shared their views on the Northgate development. It’s been fantastic to hear the passion people have for their city and the interest in the regeneration of Chester Northgate.
“Being able to discuss design detail with the public is great for the team and the input will make a real difference in how the design will create an exciting new destination in Chester. We are considering every comment to see how we can fine tune the designs in response to key areas of interest.
“I’m pleased that many of the points that have emerged give clarity on what the people of the city want to see. Many people have said they think sustainability and the green agenda is important along with open space, and we have already begun to incorporate these within our early designs on display in the Forum shop.”
The formal consultation closes on 18 April. The shop is open Wednesday 10 April 9.00 – 12 noon, Friday 1.00pm – 5.00pm, Saturday 9.00am – 12 noon. Then week beginning 15th, Monday 9.00am – 12 noon, Wednesday 9.00am – 12 noon.