HUNDREDS attended a drop-in session where plans for a new visitor attraction at Chester’s Dee House were discussed.
The two-hour One City Plan meeting, held at Chester Town Hall’s Palatine Room on Tuesday, was open to all residents to express their views on what they would like to see built at the former 18th century town-house, which once was a convent.
Chester Renaissance, who have joined forces with Cheshire West and Chester Council, have been working with city based heritage and structural engineers Patrick Parsons for the last nine months to explore the idea of a state-of-the-art attraction in the building.
For a time Dee House, which overlooks the amphitheatre, was occupied by BT but has been closed since the 1990s.
At Tuesday’s meeting, representatives from Chester Renaissance and Patrick Parsons asked residents their views on what should happen to the building and invited them to share their memories from over the years.
Questionnaires were also given out so feedback could be collated afterwards.
Rita Waters, Chester Renaissance Chief Executive, said the meeting was one of the most well attended the company had ever seen.
Speaking to The Chronicle, she explained: “It was very much a meeting where people were able to put their views across, and it sparked a lively debate.
“As well as discussing Dee House, people were also able to hear a progress overview of other projects we have delivered so far.”
She added: “There were lots of people who told some interesting stories about their memories of Dee House.
“As always, people have their different views but we were very pleased with the turnout.
“The next step will be in the next few weeks when Patrick Parsons will present the feedback from the session to Cheshire West and Chester Council, who will then take it forward.”
