There is still have time to help shape the future of Chester Northgate

There is still time for residents and businesses in Chester to have their say on the next phase of the Northgate regeneration project, with this stage of the public engagement remaining open until 19th June 2026.

The project marks the first step in delivering a key priority of the Chester One City Plan and has already generated valuable feedback from local people. However, Cheshire West and Chester Council and ION Developments are keen to hear from as many residents, businesses and visitors as possible before the consultation closes.  So far over 150 pieces of feedback have been received and everything will be analysed when this stage of the consultation closes. 

The next phase of the Northgate development aims to deliver a new residential community of more than 400 sustainable homes, including affordable housing, helping to open up this part of the city and repopulate the heart of Chester. Alongside new homes, the scheme includes public realm improvements and supporting infrastructure designed to enhance accessibility, attract investment and increase footfall.

The masterplan looks to the future while restoring and celebrating Chester’s historic street patterns, creating an inclusive community inspired by the city’s rich heritage.

The proposed scheme would allow the Town Hall building to be fully appreciated once again, no longer attached to and overshadowed by the former Forum Shopping Centre and Council offices.

Initial proposals also include a new cultural building opening onto Town Hall Square, with the potential to complement existing cultural provision through gallery and performance spaces, community facilities and exhibitions celebrating Chester’s unique history.

Earlier this month, members of the public were invited to attend consultation events at the former Barclays Bank building on St Werburgh Street, where they were able to view the emerging proposals, speak with the project team and share their views. Information banners have also been displayed across the city to help raise awareness of the consultation and encourage participation.

Gemma Davies, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Director of Economy and Housing, said: “Thank you to everyone who has already taken the time to engage with the proposals and share their feedback. We have received a great deal of useful insight so far, but we want to hear from as many people as possible before this stage of the consultation closes. We would encourage anyone with an interest in Chester’s future to take a look and tell us what they think.”

Steve Parry, Managing Director of ION Developments, said:

“We’ve been pleased by the level of interest and engagement received so far. Building on our initial discussions with stakeholders, this consultation provides an important opportunity for the wider community to help shape the emerging vision for Northgate. Every comment received will help inform the next stages of the masterplan as we continue developing proposals for this important part of the city.”

This is the beginning of an ongoing conversation with the community, and further engagement on more detailed proposals will take place before a formal planning application is submitted. All feedback received will be carefully considered in helping to shape a development that reflects Chester’s heritage while meeting the needs of future generations.

Further information about the proposals and an online feedback form can be found at: 

www.chesternorthgate2.co.uk

The consultation closes on 19th June 2026.

Pictured - Chester Northgate Phase 2 illustration.