Plans for the new Macclesfield town centre (From Community Newsgroup)

Plans for the new Macclesfield town centre

11:39am Thursday 27th November 2008

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Outline plans for a £200 million redevelopment of Macclesfield Town Centre, promising big improvements to shopping and leisure, have been unveiled this week.

Developers Wilson Bowden have now finalised a masterplan with Macclesfield Borough Council for the planning application, which could see work start on the 500,000 square foot development by 2011. The publication of the outline planning application now kick-starts a further consultation process.

Wilson Bowden were appointed in 2005 to work with MBC on the scheme, which will see a department store, cinema, community hall, multi-storey car park, new retail units and housing in an area bounded by Park Green, Churchill Way, Water Street, Mill Street and Castle Street.

Emma Newman, Development Manager at Wilson Bowden, said: “Through extensive consultation with key stakeholders, landowners and members of the public, we believe we are submitting the best scheme for Macclesfield. There is no doubt that it will have long-term financial benefits for the town as it encourages new retailers and businesses to invest locally and the focus on leisure with a cinema and restaurants will boost the town’s evening economy.”

Councillor Jamie Macrae, MBC’s Portfolio Holder for Planning and Development, said: “Over the last few months we’ve been re-evaluating the scheme and the proposals published today are very exciting.

“This process has not been without its challenges. Changes have been made as a result of concerns expressed by stakeholders and members of the public.

“The layout and complexity of the scheme has had some impact but I’m delighted that the scheme is going forward in spite of the current economic climate.” The outline application includes retail and traffic assessments, an environmental impact study, open spaces strategy, design and access details, and an archaeological survey.

MBC is now consulting residents, businesses and statutory bodies about the proposals until the beginning of January 2009. After that the Council will review the comments received and a special Planning Committee is likely to be held by March 2009 to determine the application.

It is anticipated that the entire development will be completed in 2014.

The outline planning application will shortly be available to view online at www.macclesfield.gov.uk, and an exhibition of the development is also on view in the Customer Centre at Macclesfield Town Hall.

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