Issue - meetings

          The Board considered a report of the Executive Director Environment and Regeneration, that presented the Regeneration Framework for Widnes Town Centre for approval. The Framework set out nine spatial strategies and deliverables to drive the future of Widnes Town Centre. It summarised the evolution of the Town Centre over the years and some of the challenges that would need to be overcome, before setting out where the development opportunities would lie.

          Consultation on developing the Framework had taken place with the Widnes Town Centre Panel, Council staff, Council website, pop up events held in the Town Centre, major landowners and a workshop with students from Cronton College.

          The Framework was supported by the following two evidence-based documents which had been composed by industry specialists to inform the special strategies and projects:

·       Widnes Town Centre, Active Travel and Movement Study; and

·       Widnes Town Centre Engagement Feedback Report.

Reason(s) for Decision

The Framework has the potential to impact the wider Halton Community.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

N/A

Implementation Date

Subject to obtaining the necessary permissions and securing funding, the period from 2025 to 2035.

          RESOLVED: That the Board approve

1)    the Widnes Town Centre Regeneration Framework, the spatial strategies and projects outlined within it be supported and approved;

2)    the next steps to delivery as outlined in section 7 of the Framework;

3)    delegated authority being given to the Executive Director for Environment and Regeneration, in consultation with the Portfolio Holders for Major Projects and Climate Change, to pursue further investigations into identified project areas as opportunities come forward;

4)    the move towards establishing a Widnes Town Centre Strategic Board comprising relevant public and private sector partners, to have direct oversight of the delivery of projects; and

5)    the Widnes Town Centre Regeneration Framework and its two supporting  documents be published on the Council website.