£1.4 million confirmed for station gateway

15 March 2007

Chester City Council is celebrating after securing £1.4 million of investment for Chester Station and its surrounding areas.

The funding will be used by the Gateway Partnership to deliver a programme of improvements under the Heritage Lottery's Townscape Heritage Initiative. A series of projects will be delivered over the next five years including improvements to the station complex, public realm works and the regeneration of buildings along Brook Street and City Road.

A successful bid for £550,000 of Heritage Lottery Funding was made in October which, together with private sector investment and money from Cheshire County Council, Chester City Council and the Railway Heritage Trust, will provide £1.4 million to repair and enhance historically important buildings that contribute towards the character of the area.

Councillor Jim Latham, cabinet member for development, explained: "This investment will make a significant contribution to an important regeneration programme. This year alone, the partnership will deliver improvements including a re-modelled concourse, a new station square and architectural lighting for the station facade."

Councillor Ann Farrell, portfolio holder for culture said: "I am delighted that this funding has been confirmed. The improvements in and around Chester Station will enhance a number of historically important buildings and create an attractive and welcoming gateway into our city."

The Gateway Partnership, which is delivering the programme, is inviting members of the public to find out more about the improvements at an informal information event. The event is being held in the Victoria Room of the Queen's Hotel on 27th March from 1pm to 8pm and everyone is welcome.

The Gateway Partnership includes Arriva Trains Wales, Cheshire County Council, Chester City Council, Merseyrail, Merseytravel, Network Rail, North West Development Agency, Railway Heritage Trust, Virgin Trains and Visit Chester and Cheshire.
More information about the project can be found on the city council's website: www.chester.gov.uk

Back to the News Page