Plans have been submitted to demolish a former recreation centre in Winsford, paving the way for the next stage of town centre regeneration. The application for prior approval for demolition has been submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council's planning department for Dingle Recreation Centre on High Street.
The centre, which closed several years ago, used to serve the over 50s during the day and was also available for venue hire. The council itself lodged the plans, and if approved, it is anticipated that the demolition will be carried out using a combination of machinery and manual labour.
The plans include the removal and treatment of asbestos and other hazardous materials, with demolition then taking place using equipment such as excavators, dust suppression machines, low loaders, and tippers. According to the application, once the redundant building has been demolished, the site will be cleared and backfilled in preparation for redevelopment as part of the next phase of the town centre masterplan's regeneration.
The first phase of the council's £22.5 million regeneration project for Winsford town centre, funded by the council and the former Government's Future High Street Fund, is already underway.
A new B&M superstore and garden centre, approximately half the size of a football pitch, is under construction. A Costa Coffee branch has recently opened at the junction of Dene Drive and High Street.
Several other businesses have also launched this year, including My Dentist, Coffee House and Caprinos. Additionally, Cine-window Winsford is set to unveil new art installations in the coming year.
In terms of infrastructure, a 168-space car park, complete with electric vehicle charging points, is being developed. In collaboration with the Royal British Legion and Winsford Town Council, refurbishment works are underway on two war memorials, which have been relocated to a new public square in front of the library.
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