Council appoints Langtree to Astmoor regeneration project

The development site

Developer Langtree has been appointed by Halton Borough Council to deliver the regeneration of a 21-acre plot within the Astmoor industrial area of Runcorn.

Four development plots capable of delivering around 185,000 sq ft of new industrial space will be developed, using land set aside to support the construction of the new Mersey crossing.

A phased development is envisaged, says the company, with start on site targeted for the second half of next year.

Langtree chief executive, John Downes, said: “We will bring our design, funding and market expertise to bear to ensure a successful scheme.”

He said the aim is to build on the borough’s successful blend of SMEs and inward investment through the correct mix of unit sizes and types, with the Astmoor site now seeing significant new investment due to its strategic location next to the new bridge.

He added: “The council is determined to maximise the economic outputs generated by the Mersey Gateway for the benefit of its residents.

“The borough already has a robust SME sector underpinned by a whole raft of blue-chip industrial PLCs that engage with the local supply chain. Our partnership with the council is targeted at providing new, well designed and well managed products that will add to the existing industrial offer.

“The scheme will deliver more choice and quality to the market, whilst ensuring, wherever possible, that the main economic and social impacts are felt locally.”

Cllr Dave Thompson, Halton Borough Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration and major projects, said: “It’s vitally important that we ensure our economy remains competitive and able to attract and support businesses. Providing a varied, high quality property offer is key to this and we will continue to drive investment in the borough through the strategic use of our land assets.

“Langtree’s expertise in brownfield regeneration and the firm’s market reach make it the ideal partner for our Astmoor opportunity.”

He added: “The council has always been clear that the Mersey Gateway would provide a boost for inward investment into Halton. The Masterplan allows us to explore the means to bring new employment opportunities and this will help give Astmoor a major boost.”

Work is now under way to appoint the design and planning team for the project.

The appointment sees Langtree further add to its growing workload, with detailed design work now under way for its one million sq ft Parkside scheme in Newton-le-Willows.

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