Green light for Wilson Bowden’s Macclesfield plans

WILSON Bowden’s controversial plans to redevelop Macclesfield town centre have been approved.

In January the developer put in revised plans for the £90m, 200,000 sq ft Silk Street development which includes a Debenhams store, 19 high street shops, a cinema complex, restaurants and a multi-storey car park.

The development covers an area from Exchange Street to Park Lane, bounded by Mill Street, Water Street and Churchill Way.

Around 1,600 comments were made during a consultation with many questioning the need for the scheme and its potential impact on the town.

Nine councillors on the strategic planning board backed the scheme and it was opposed by three.

Council leader Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “This is really exciting and significant news – not only for the people and businesses of Macclesfield but for the whole of Cheshire East.

“It shows that Cheshire East is open for business and not prepared to stand still and manage decline. Macclesfield has not been achieving its potential – and this landmark decision is a tremendous vote of confidence in its future and will be a vital catalyst for the wider regeneration of the whole town and Macclesfield area.”

Will Robinson, retail director at Wilson Bowden developments, said: “We’re thrilled that a decision has been taken to support Silk Street as part of the wider vision to create a thriving, vibrant town centre in Macclesfield, offering something for everyone. We’re looking forward to starting work on the scheme and bringing the plans to life.”