Council offers public say on Congleton retail plan

Cheshire East Council has invited local businesses and residents to contribute their thoughts on proposals to release council-owned land in Congleton for development.

In May, Cheshire East agreed a deal with Scarborough Group to transfer the land in a move that would enable the progress of The Mills, a 45,000 sq ft retail and leisure scheme linked to a new market square, improved market facilities and car parking.

The council has now issued public notices relating to open space at Market Place, along with Stonehouse Green and Princess Street which are currently used as surface car parks.

Cllr Don Stockton, cabinet member for regeneration and assets, said: “We are aware that there is a considerable amount of local interest in this development and we would encourage everyone with a view on this scheme to engage in this process.

“The council is disposing of land to enable a suitable scheme to go forward but there will be certain conditions once the proposals reach the planning stage.

“The council has long held aspirations to see this part of Congleton town centre regenerated and this is an opportunity to progress those ambitions.”

Scarborough intends for the market to run as normal throughout the development process.

The developer has for several years been considering options for the extension of the adjacent Bridestones Centre, having acquired the site in the wake of Modus’ collapse – a previous consent, now expired, included a hotel and large supermarket.

In September last year, the current scheme emerged, which will see vacant retail units on Mill Street replaced with the modern two-storey scheme, with the developer contributing to improving the town’s market alongside its proposals.

The disposal of the three sites will only be completed if planning consent is granted.

Comments or objections must be lodged with the council by Friday 8 September.