‘Firm interest’ in town revamp bid
THE redevelopment of Skelmersdale town centre is attracting substantial interest from potential occupiers, according to developers.
The regeneration project will create 500 new jobs, bringing the town a new cinema, restaurants and bars.
Under the redevelopment a new high street will also link the existing town centre to the new £26m college.
St. Modwen, the company in charge of the development, said they are “encouraged” by the level of interest from potential occupiers in its Skelmersdale town centre scheme.
The update comes after a lengthy legal battle with the Concourse Centre.
Paul Batho, Projects Director at St. Modwen, said: “Together with our partners, West Lancashire Borough Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, we have re-engaged with potential occupiers and are extremely encouraged by the response to date.
“We are now actively working with our partners to identify a time frame for delivery of the project and are engaged in progressive discussions with a number of potential occupiers who are interested in coming to Skelmersdale.
“Although the regeneration scheme was granted planning permission by the Council in 2015, the decision was subject of legal challenge and consequently we have been unable to progress the scheme or make any major announcements.
“Having successfully defended against the legal challenge, we are now in a position to resume discussions with potential occupiers.”
West Lancashire Borough Council Leader Ian Moran said: “This major scheme will benefit not just the people of Skelmersdale but the whole of West Lancashire.
“We are working with partners and progress is being made. We look forward to being involved in further exciting announcements in the near future.”
West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper said: “I am delighted the partners have provided an update on the Skelmersdale redevelopment project.
“It is clear to me though that residents won’t be assured the town centre scheme will be delivered until the diggers are finally on site.
“I’m encouraged that the partners are indicating they are wanting to get a move on to make this project as the end of the original 15-year contract gets ever closer.
“Along with Skelmersdale residents, I am looking forward to further meaningful updates from the partners on their progress.”
The scheme incorporates a variety of leisure, retail and public space, which bring together essential components for the transformation of Skelmersdale.