The Forum Shopping c Julia Hatmaker for Place North West

The Forum forms a key part of phase two of the council's Northgate scheme. Credit: Place North West

VINCI/ION at the double in Cheshire West

1 July 2025 15:40 Dan Whelan Comments ()

The joint venture has been selected by the local council to deliver the second phase of the transformation of Chester Northgate and the regeneration of Weaver Square in Northwich.

VINCI/ION, a partnership between the global construction firm and Liverpool-based developer, has overcome its competitors to win both jobs for Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Both regeneration opportunities were procured via the Pagabo framework.

In Chester, VINCI/ION will deliver phase two of the Northgate masterplan, which will feature up to 400 homes as part of a mixed-use redevelopment of the Forum Shopping Centre and offices, Hamilton House, Merchant House, Goldsmith House and the former Gateway Theatre.

The partnership prevailed over Capital&Centric and Cityheart, the other two shortlisted parties.

The first phase of the Northgate development saw the council self-deliver a relocated and revamped Chester Market, restaurants, cinema, car park, and offices. Vinci was the contractor for this scheme.

In Northwich, VINCI/ION will lead on the redevelopment of the council-owned Weaver Square, the town’s main shopping area.

The project could result in the delivery of more than 100 homes and a new-look market; the former Weaver Square market was destroyed in a fire in early 2020.

VINCI/ION’s appointments in Chester and Northwich are its third and fourth as a partnership.

They were selected last February for the regeneration of Derby city centre and more recently by Coventry University for the redevelopment of the former Civic Centre.

Cllr Nathan Pardoe, cabinet member for inclusive economy, regeneration and digital transformation, said: “The Weaver Square and Northgate Future Phases schemes are both once in a generation opportunities to create vibrant and sustainable residential-led neighbourhoods in the heart of Northwich and Chester.

“These two major regeneration schemes will bring increased footfall, vitality and long-term economic opportunity. Most importantly of all, they will bring quality placemaking and create spaces that future generations can be proud of. They demonstrate that Cheshire West & Chester Council is committed to regenerating towns and city centre across the Borough, and will continue our track record of transformation and success. We look forward to a collaborative and productive relationship with VINCI and ION to help us to realise the ambitions of Northwich and Chester.”

He added: “The next stage of the process will be the signing of a Pre-Development Agreement for each scheme. VINCI and ION will work with the Northwich and Chester communities to co-produce masterplans for the two sites, putting the aspirations of local residents at the centre of the new developments.”