Discount retailer’s flagship new store will lead Winsford transformation

Liverpool-based discount retail chain B&M will open a new flagship store as part of Winsford town centre’s transformation plans.

A purpose-built 26,000 sq ft retail unit, and an 8,800 sq ft garden centre, are earmarked for the site where Fountain Court is currently situated as part of phase one of the town’s regeneration plans.

B&M will relocate its Winsford store to a much bigger and better new-build store next to Winsford town centre. The retailer said the number of new jobs created by the move won’t be known until closer to the opening of the new store

Planning permission for the transformation was approved by Cheshire West and Chester Council in May.

Plans include the demolition of Queen’s Parade and Fountains Court and the council has been working with existing businesses, including some relocations.

The scheme involves modern shops and restaurants, a drive-to/through coffee shop, better parking facilities and a new public square to accommodate a new home for the relocated war memorials.

Work is expected to start on site later this summer and, once complete, it will have a distinctive parkland character by extending Winsford’s green spaces, its award-winning Town Park and natural assets into the town centre. A leafy, new pedestrian boulevard will run north to south.

Cllr Richard Beacham, cabinet member for inclusive growth, economy and regeneration, said: “The decision by B&M to invest in Winsford follows on from other large businesses such as {my}dentist and Caprinos opening up new stores recently.

“There is excitement growing about the future of the town centre among the business community, as it redevelops and becomes a better leisure and retail destination with a whole new look. Residents can expect to see more food and retail businesses setting up shop in the town centre in the future.”

The town centre redevelopment will be undertaken in phases and details on future phases will be released later.

The council bought the shopping centre in November 2018, and much work has taken place since to get to this stage. The authority secured £9.98m from the Government’s Future High Street Fund and is also investing £11m of council funding to pay for the scheme.