Chamber welcomes Crewe regeneration plans

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce has joined with One Crewe in welcoming proposals to breathe new life into Crewe town centre with housing.

Cheshire East Council has unveiled regeneration plans involving the development of 300 high-quality new homes, commercial space for shops and businesses and better public spaces.

The local authority says the scheme aims to attract more people into the town centre and make it a livelier and more attractive place.

As councillors prepare to consider the plans on Tuesday (September 9), the Chamber has announced its full support.

Chief Executive Paul Colman said: “We welcome the council’s proposals for the regeneration of the town centre and recognise the significance such an investment would offer the long-term prosperity of our community.

“A revitalised town centre would provide an enhanced environment for businesses to grow, improve the experience for residents and visitors, and strengthen the area’s appeal as a destination.

“We are committed to working collaboratively with the council and other stakeholders to ensure these plans deliver lasting economic and social benefits.

“By combining public and private sector efforts, we have a unique opportunity to create a town centre that celebrates heritage while providing the infrastructure and vibrancy needed for future growth.”

The scheme, to be considered by the economy and growth committee, would redevelop key council-owned sites in the heart of Crewe town centre, including the undeveloped part of the Royal Arcade site, Chester Street Car Park, and Delamere Street Car Park.

To move forward, the council has engaged with a well-known developer of residential-led mixed use schemes in places with similar economic challenges as Crewe.

One Crewe says: “Local people finally have some positive news about Crewe regeneration. These proposals offer a great mix of housing and shops, bars and cafes which would create a buzz of people and draw small, independent shops offering something different to the big corporates on the Grand Junction Retail Park. We look forward to this receiving the full go-ahead.”

For more on town centre plans including the ‘meanwhile use’ to open up the undeveloped part of the Royal Arcade with new seating, lighting, picnic areas and event space and the long-term vision for Crewe to become the ‘Best Small City’ in Europe by 2050 go to https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/council_information/media_hub/media_releases/cheshire-east-council-shares-major-new-regeneration-plans-for-crewe-town-centre.aspx