NWDA announces £931,000 investment for public realm works in the heart of Chester

31 January 2008

The Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) is delighted to announce an investment of £931,800 for improvement packages aimed at helping Chester to become a 'must-see' European destination. The improvements are part of the £1.5 billion Chester Renaissance programme, co-ordinated by Chester City Council on behalf of the Chester Renaissance Partnership.

The Public Realm works, which started on 14th January, are a £1,355,800 project which will improve the way people move around the city and further strengthen Chester’s high quality visitor and leisure offer.

Peter White, Executive Director of Development at the NWDA said: "These high quality public realm works will create an environment which will enhance the perception of Chester and encourage private sector investment. Investment in public realm is a key feature of the Chester Renaissance, underpinning our effort to raise the overall quality of Chester as a destination. This NWDA investment will help reinforce and improve the distinctiveness and appeal of Chester as a destination for visitors, residents and investors."

Mike Jones, city council Executive Member for Development and Acting Chairman of the Chester Renaissance Board said: "I am delighted that the NWDA is making this excellent commitment in Chester. Their support is critical for developing a strong partnership between the NWDA and our private sector partners, who are investing in Chester to make it a must-see European destination. Chester is such a special city and this support is a big boost to the Renaissance programme and important to developing its economy."

The packages include:

• Castle and Riverfront Zone Public Realm Works - Specific improvements will include the rejoining of the walls over Castle Drive, extending the promenade from the Little Roodee to the start of the Groves and creating a ramped access point between Castle Drive and the Little Roodee.
• Northgate Street Public Realm Works - High quality natural surface treatments will be used in keeping with the setting of the street and its proximity to the Roman Walls and listed buildings
• City Road Public Realm Works - Enhancements to a street that not only provides a key route between the station and the city centre, but also houses many commercial premises including hotels, retailers and offices.
• Riverside Promenade Upgrading and Enhancement Works - Improvements to include kerbing, railings, seating, other street furniture, landscaping and a high quality surface finish along Riverside Promenade route

Works are expected to be completed in Spring 2008 in time for the summer.

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