The controversial £135 million development of what is described as a ‘Multi Media Centre’ in the former home of the Galleries in Wigan has been officially submitted for approval - with new pictures to show what it could look like.
The plans for the town centre site have been on the table since an initial planning application was given the green light in 2021. This proposal has been subject to criticism from both councillors and residents alike, all believing the cost to be too much during a cost of living crisis - culminating in a recent 4.99 per cent council tax rise.
Currently the old site is being demolished and now Wigan Council are requesting for permission, alongside contractor Cityheart for permission to built the 84,000 sq ft site.
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The site would comprise a six screen, 700 seat cinema, multi-lane bowling alley, indoor mini golf, a climbing wall and a wide range of other indoor leisure activities, according to developers. The MMC will also include public events space and a games arcade along with a range of bar and restaurant establishments.
At the most recent full council meeting in the town hall on March 1, the deputy chief executive Paul McKevitt promised that plans were still on track for the development. It looks as though he was true to his word as plans have now officially been tabled.
The long-term, multi-phase investment has been described by CityHeart as the ‘UK’s most innovative low carbon regeneration projects’, that would transform the town centre. Designed by JM Architects, this nationally significant development will also comprise 483 homes across seven new residential buildings; a 144-bedroom hotel; a retirement living complex; a new market hall and food court as well as new landscaped areas of public realm including a public square for events and performances.
Warren Taylor, Development Director at Cityheart said: “The MMC was originally going to form part of a later phase of the multi-stage development but has been brought forward to realise the ambition of a truly mixed-use, exciting town centre neighbourhood. Having superb town centre leisure facilities will transform Wigan for existing and future residents and creates a destination for visitors which will enhance the local economy.
“We are looking forward to the determination of the application and if it is successful making a swift start on site with demolition commencing in later spring/early summer.”
Since signing a Development Agreement in June 2021, the partnership between Wigan Council and Cityheart has made rapid progress in securing a hybrid planning application for the full site in November 2021, securing vacant possession of the site, and starting site remediation and demolition works in July last year. The demolition works are being undertaken by Principal Contractor BECGI Construction (UK) Ltd.
The old site will be flattened over the course of 18 months, delivering a phased programme of clearance across the site. The first phase of demolition is expected to conclude on time towards the end of 2023 and careful sequencing is being utilised to cause minimum disruption, Cityheart have claimed.
The new market hall will be the first building to be completed, targeted for late 2024.
Aidan Thatcher, Director, Growth and Economy for Wigan Council added: “The MMC will provide Wigan town centre with a super leisure facility which is essential in creating a place for future generations to enjoy, a town centre neighbourhood which will be populated by more local people, increased visitors, new homes, a destination market, successful businesses and thriving retailers.”
The completed scheme is estimated to create 660 full-time jobs and have a Gross Value Add (GVA) impact of £26.5m per year. As an indirect result 40 full-time jobs will be supported adding a further £2.5m GVA per year, Cityheart have said.
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