New CGI images have been released showing the latest update on a "once in a lifetime" overhaul of a Merseyside town centre.
St Helens Borough Council announced their "masterplan" of regeneration last year, with extensive work to be carried out over the next two decades. Future phases of the 20-year master plan will span into the other parts of the town centre including St Marys and improve residential links to assets such as the World of Glass Museum as well as bringing in more greenspace into the town including a Discovery Park.
The latest set of images show a completely redeveloped bus station, as a new market hall building. Recently approved planning applications include for some demolition of existing property and outline consent for new buildings, which will allow for flexibility in further phases depending on market conditions.
READ MORE: Hundreds of Jacob's staff strike outside factory in row over pay
The images show a stark contrast between the current area surrounding the bus station and the existing buildings. These include a new hotel as part of the regeneration.
Councillor David Baines, leader of St Helens Borough Council, said: “Less than a year ago we asked the public what they thought of our plans for St Helens town centre and their overwhelming support for this project shows that this is the right plan. Gaining planning permission for this exciting first phase of development shows that, with thanks to our partnership with ECF, we are delivering on residents wishes to see our town centre revitalised at the very earliest opportunity.
“We’re now in the process of seeking to finalise the last few property purchases and we’re moving as fast as we can to deliver this ambitious transformation that will once again make St Helens town centre a place to be proud of.”
Stuart Rogers, Projects Director at English Cities Fund, added: “Together with St Helens Borough Council we’ve made significant progress and we’re delighted to receive approval from the Council’s Planning Committee, which will enable us to move forward at continued pace, turning the vision for the town centre into a reality.
“Now we’ve received approval on our plans, we can continue our collective mission to bring forward new places and opportunities in the borough that will deliver real, positive benefits to communities for the long term. Our work in partnership with St Helens Borough Council will be a shining example of place-based, community-focused regeneration and we’re excited for a bright future.”
READ NEXT
Man in his 60s attacked outside Liverpool Sainsbury's store
List of DWP payments and money changes happening this week
19 things that ruined your day if you were a Merseyside teen in the Noughties
Extensive' enquiries ongoing to find mum, 47, missing for a week
This Morning fans panic as Martin Lewis 'lost for words' over cost of living crisis
