The next steps of St Helens town centre's "masterplan" of regeneration could see large scale demolition.
The "masterplan", unveiled last year by St Helens Borough Council details an overhaul of the town centre, set to span two decades. The council says the plans will facilitate a game-changing transformation that will build upon the town centre's existing assets and heritage - highlighting the uniqueness of what the town already has to offer - while delivering high quality, sustainable regeneration and shining light on the independent businesses in the borough.
The latest set of proposals, drawn up by the English Cities Fund, will come before the St Helens planning committee next week.
READ MORE: Towns to be transformed in 'once in a lifetime' regeneration
The plans seek permission for demolition work to be carried out, as well as permission for a new hotel, residential units, commercial and business space. One of the major aspects of the proposals could see one of the town centre's biggest shopping centres- the Hardshaw Centre- demolished.
The proposed site affected by the plans comprises a large portion of the town centre. Full planning permission is sought for the demolition of: The Hardshaw Centre, St Mary’s Shopping Arcade, market and multi-storey car park, 39-41 Hall Street (Swan Hotel and Town Fryer Fish & Chips shop) to the immediate east of the bus station and located within the George Street conservation area, All buildings in the block of retail units bounded by the bus station to the east, Bickerstaffe Street to the south, Library Street to the west, and Corporation Street to the north.
Among the buildings that will not be demolished is the old Marks and Spencer building, as well as a power substation. Councillor Kate Groucutt, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Economy, Business and Skills, said: "It's a really exciting time for St Helens Borough with our plans for major regeneration moving forward through our Masterplan Framework, partnership with English Cities Fund and bids to the Towns Fund and Levelling up Fund.
"But alongside this leadership and investment from the council, we need the vision and creativity of the private sector. I'm pleased that we've seen that in recent months and businesses are reporting renewed confidence and willingness to invest, start new enterprises and create jobs."
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