Plans for a strong recovery are underway following a tough 14 months for Northwich

Cheshire West and Chester Council has reaffirmed its commitment to reversing Northwich’s fortunes with a series of exciting developments, following a tough 14 months for the town.

During this time, Northwich has suffered a devastating fire at the outdoor market, closely followed by the coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions it brought. Most recently the town felt the full brunt of Storm Christoph, which saw unprecedented flooding affecting homes and businesses alike.

The focus is now very much on recovery and there are ambitious plans for the future of Northwich, with the Council and its partners developing plans for a vibrant new market space. There will be investment in Northwich’s historic library, improvements in leisure provision at the Moss Farm sports complex and the creation of a temporary green space that will give shoppers, workers and residents a place to relax as the country comes out of lockdown.

Cabinet Member for Inclusive Growth, Economy and Regeneration, Councillor Richard Beacham said: “We recognise how much the town has been through in recent times and how hard residents and businesses have been affected. However, we also see a bright future ahead.

“We are keen to reinvigorate the town by providing good quality housing, opportunities for work and to do business, along with social and cultural opportunities for residents and businesses.

“We are also working on making Northwich a safe place to visit following Covid-19, and I  hope that local residents will be able to make use of all the great things that Northwich has to offer once restrictions have been eased.”

Work is continuing on the masterplan for Weaver Square, which will complement both Barons Quay and the High Street offer. Working closely with the Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and other partners, emerging plans include new and improved health facilities and housing.

The reopening of Barons Quay alongside the other businesses in Northwich will see the town come to life once more. Prior to Covid-19, many new businesses had opened in the town, which included a mix of independent retail and leisure businesses alongside big brand names such as River Island and H&M. Work is still ongoing to attract more tenants to the town and it’s hoped that more news will be shared soon.

In addition, a small number of free parking bays are due to be in place from April, in the Victoria Club car park, allowing those who wish to nip into the town centre for a brief 15-minute visit, to do so easily.