THE troubled future of Chester's near half billion pound Northgate Development has reached the new Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The issue was raised at a scrutiny committee by the council's Lib Dem group leader, Cllr Malcolm Gaskill (Winsford South & West.)

Cllr Gaskill asked a question about the recent announcement there would be a delay in the huge development.

Cheshire West and Chester Leader, Cllr Mike Jones (Con, Broxton) gave details of the history of the scheme, including potential issues with planning conditions and outlined the current position in relation to developing the project and seeking new investment, according to a council document.

In response to a further question from Cllr Gaskill, he confirmed that Cheshire West and Chester would not be providing developers ING with funding.

It was revealed at the end of last month (October) the long awaited scheme, the largest development in the city, was to be put on hold until 2012.

The city council and ING said they wanted to ensure the development did not suffer as a result of “continued economic uncertainty” but reaffirmed their commitment to the massive regeneration.

ING is hoping to come up with a development partner towards the end of this year.