‘It’s a once-in-a lifetime opportunity’
MACCLESFIELD’S MP has heralded the new vision as a ‘once-in-a-generation opportunity’.
David Rutley said the proposals are ‘an important step’ towards the regeneration of the town centre - but called for more money to be spent improving the public realm.
He said £5m should be spent on public realm improvements over the next four years rather than the £1.4m pledged by the council.
Mr Rutley also pressed the council to work with heritage organisations like Silk Heritage Trust to make the most of the Macclesfield’s iconic heritage buildings.
He said: “There is now a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver the regeneration of Macclesfield town centre residents and businesses deserve. Macclesfield has huge potential, making it all the more important that these much-needed initiatives are actively taken forward.
“I am grateful to the many community and business groups who are supporting the plans to make our town a more distinctive destination. We must be bold and seize this moment, and I will continue to do all that I can to support this vital work going forward. I would encourage local residents to get involved with Cheshire East Council’s consultation when it is launched in the weeks ahead.”
Councillor Janet Jackson, who represents the town centre on both Cheshire East Council and Macclesfield Town Council, also backed the vision.
She said: “There are a lot of exciting things happening in Macclesfield. This vision is about linking them all together and making Macclesfield a destination. It’s not just about the big projects like the cinema, the Grosvenor expansion and Georgian Mill, and I welcome ideas for a new high-end hotel and developments around the station. But it is about the small projects like expanding the tree lighting, which were really well received in Sparrow Park.
“It is about linking the pockets of the town centre and creating a general sense of well being and positivity. It’s about creating more events to get people into the town centre.
“I like the idea of pedestrianising the centre into the evening to create an Alfresco cafe culture vibe, particularly around Castle Street.
“What’s also important is that the Town Council is playing a big part in this vision which builds on the work we’ve been doing.”