Ellesmere Port MP launches petition over stalled shopping centre investment

Justin Madders MP has launched a petition calling on the owners of The Port Arcades shopping centre in Ellesmere Port to deliver a promised multi-million-pound investment — or make way for new ownership.

The Ellesmere Port and Bromborough MP said the town centre is already set to benefit from major public investment, including improvements to the market, plans for new homes and £20 million in regeneration funding.

But with such a significant part of it in private hands, he said it is vital the shopping centre owners, the Blackburn-based Adhan Group, also step up by delivering on their promised revamp.

Mr Madders said:

“Given all the public investment going into the area, it’s only fair the owners of The Port Arcades play their part in revitalising our town centre.

“The Port Arcades should be the heart of the town — busy, warm and welcoming — but too many units stand empty and it’s cold during the winter months.”

Urging Adhan to “move with the times”, the MP said online retail had changed shopping habits and reshaped what people expect from their town centres.

He added:

“Significant investment is happening all around The Port Arcades. The market next door is being modernised, new homes are planned for first-time buyers and families and £20 million Pride in Place government funding will be invested in the community over the next decade. The shopping centre will see increased footfall from this public investment.

“But where are the millions of pounds of private investment that were promised for The Port Arcades? For example, plans to redevelop the old B&M Bargains site into a new community space, with pop-up pubs and cafés on Marina Walk, have simply not happened.”

Mr Madders said he had repeatedly contacted the Adhan Group but has yet to see any meaningful progress.

He said:

“There is real opportunity ahead for our town thanks to public investment, but the private funding promised by Adhan has yet to follow. That’s why I’m asking residents to support my petition calling on Adhan to invest in the future of our town centre — or step aside for someone who will.”

Residents can sign the petition here: 

http://c.org/8tkSVgKRKx

Pictured - Justin Madders MP standing outside the entrance to The Port Arcades shopping centre in Ellesmere Port town centre.