Market Towns and Rural Workspace Studies Published

A major study of Cheshire and Warrington's market towns has identified six which could benefit from support to boost their prosperity.

The in-depth research concluded that Alsager, Middlewich and Bollington would benefit most from a package of resources aimed at improving their economic performance.

Frodsham, Holmes Chapel and Poynton were identified as towns which could benefit from investment on a smaller scale.

The research, commissioned by the former Cheshire County Council and CWEA on behalf of the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), identifies a range of public realm improvements to make each town centre more attractive to shoppers and businesses alike.

These include improving town centre layouts, car parks and gateways, bringing empty buildings back into use, improving the focus for arts and cultural activities and realising the potential of tourism assets.

The study – undertaken by consultants Roger Tym and Partners - will now be considered by the NWDA who have pledged support to tackle these issues in rural Cheshire.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Prosperity Portfolio Holder for Cheshire East Council, said: “Market towns are a vital feature of Cheshire’s economy and it is important they are well supported and encouraged to thrive.

“This study has provided us with valuable evidence of their prosperity and in doing so, has identified some towns which are not performing as well as they could be expected to.

“This is an exciting opportunity for major transformation for the six towns identified and I look forward to seeing the project taken forward.”

A second report, produced by consultants BE Group, looked into the provision of workspace for small businesses in rural areas.

It concluded there is a serious shortage of such workspace in certain areas which is impacting upon the local economy.

It identified areas around Malpas, Tarporley, Frodsham, the Weaver Valley and Congleton which could benefit from assistance.

Councillor Herbert Manley, Prosperity Portfolio Holder for Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “It is vital there are enough commercial units available for rent in rural areas – otherwise businesses are forced to look elsewhere, which would be a huge loss to our rural communities.

“This study has identified a shortage of light industrial workspace in several areas, and we are committed to looking at ways of addressing this need.”

David Rowlands, Chairman of the Strategic Board of the Cheshire Rural Partnership, which was involved in both reports, said: “A prosperous market town is one that is appealing to businesses and local communities alike.

“The opportunities identified in these reports have the potential to make a real difference to our rural communities and ensure they continue to play a vital role in Cheshire’s economy.”

David Hunter, Head of Rural Development at the NWDA , said: “This research provides partners in Cheshire with significant up to the minute evidence of real potential and the NWDA are keen to begin work on refining and prioritising appropriate projects that will add value to other investments in rural Cheshire.

“The NWDA have worked alongside former Cheshire County Council on these reports and will continue to work in partnership with Cheshire East Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council to tackle issues in rural areas. Discussions on developing a proposal for a rural growth programme are at an early stage.

“Rural businesses require the same access to information and resources as any other business to grow their businesses. We are pleased to invest in activity that will offer real help for businesses in rural areas and contribute to the plugging of the productivity gap in the Northwest.”

This press release was issued by Chester East Council on behalf of the former Cheshire County Council.