Preferred Developer Announced For Baron's Quay
In a major step forward for the regeneration of Northwich, Vale Royal Borough Council has selected Wilson Bowden Developments as its preferred developer for the 30 acre Baron’s Quay development scheme.
Wilson Bowden was selected, from a competitive shortlist of three, for its highly innovative design solution as well as its incorporation of a broad mix of uses within "new quarters".
Wilson Bowden’s winning plans for Baron’s Quay comprise a comprehensive scheme for the entire Baron's Quay Development area, which would deliver up to 300,000 sq ft of comparison retailing; new residential units, a leisure hub, hotel, offices/incubator units, a major enhancement of the river frontage and an iconic new arts and cultural centre which will symbolise the renaissance of the town. The plans will realise an end value of over £200 million.
Cllr Keith Musgrave, Leader of the Council, said: "This is the first and most important major development opportunity identified in the Northwich Vision Regeneration Framework, published in 2004 by the Northwich Vision. In total, the 15 year programme will increase the town’s appeal as both a shopping and recreational destination".
Councillor Arthur Wood, Lead Councillor for Regeneration, added: "It is the Vision’s intention that the Baron's Quay development will be a symbol of innovation in relation to town centre regeneration".
Noel O’Neill, Director of Corporate and Economic Affairs at Vale Royal Borough Council said: "The Council has sought a partner capable of delivering a commercially successful and sympathetically designed retail led scheme. We were inspired by Wilson Bowden and are confident that they have the resources, capacity, experience and track record to carry out and deliver this complex project".
Simon Russian, Development Director for Wilson Bowden Developments, added: "We are delighted to have been selected by Vale Royal Borough Council for the Baron's Quay project. Northwich has huge potential to expand its retail and leisure offer and we intend to create a market-leading scheme. We are looking forward to working with the Northwich Vision partnership to deliver these objectives".
The Northwich Regeneration Partnership comprises Vale Royal Borough Council, English Partnerships, the Northwest Regional Development Agency, Cheshire County Council and British Waterways, Environment Agency and the Learning & Skills Council.
