New proposals for Northgate scheme

CHESHIRE West and Chester Council has unveiled revised plans for the stalled Northgate scheme in Chester.

The council recently took back control of the project after terminating its longstanding agreement with ING Real Estate Developers.

Its revised scheme will also be retail-led, but could also contain greater leisure content including a new multiplex cinema and more restaurants.

It will also feature a central market, an improved library and a series of bigger store units in “higher end” sizes, including a major department store and a food and beverage space. New bus services and car parking will also be provided.

The council said that Northgate is vital to its emerging ‘One City’ plan and will help play a major role in restoring Chester’s status as a top retail city.

If delivered, its concept scheme could provide up to 1,600 permanent new jobs.