Green light for £15m Walkden Town Centre redevelopment plans
The proposed £15m redevelopment of part of Walkden Town Centre has been approved by Salford City Council.
Work will start later this year.
Acting on behalf of the Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation, Derwent Estates submitted plans to demolish around 180,000 sq ft of the current retail space within Egerton Walk and Victoria Square.
Advised by Savills’ planning department, the plans also included the construction of a contemporary new façade providing a new entrance to the centre with landscaped public realm space to the front.
Scott Hall, Asset Manager at Derwent Estates, said: “We fully understand the importance of Walkden Town Centre to the local area, which is why we have taken this proactive decision to significantly improve its current offering to create a more contemporary and attractive yet sustainable environment for both retailers and visitors.
“We recognise the changing attitudes and expectations of all stakeholders, which is why these plans are so imperative to ensuring a vibrant future for the centre.”
Designed by architectural practice, RGP, Derwent Estates will now look to appoint a contractor to carry out the demolition works and is currently liaising with tenants as part of its relocation programme.
CGI of revamp plans
The scheme is being project managed by Artal.
Barker Proudlove and Graham Sibbald are the retained letting agents.
Scott added: “The charities commitment to enhancing and approving amenities in the area is further indicated by the works that we are currently undertaking at the nearby Little Hulton Community Centre.
“A grant has been awarded to redevelop the current pavilion, which has been under-used since it was constructed in 2008.
“Funds from The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation will provide an enhanced and permanent place for the community to come together with a commitment to investing and maintaining the building for the next 125 years.
“The full refurbishment and extension of the existing facility has already started on site and will be handed over to Community Little Hulton in October of this year.”
