A TOWN centre improvement manager has been hired to give Ellesmere Port a facelift.
The Ellesmere Port Development Board (EPDB) has appointed Jochem Hollestelle to bring a range of improvements to the centre for residents and businesses.
His first task is to create a forum of local businesses, residents and land owners to help shape future improvements.
Plans for a range of improvement projects for the town centre over the next two years are beginning to take shape – made possible with funding from Marks & Spencer and Cheshire West and Chester Council.
The forum of town centre stakeholders, chaired by The Port Arcades Shopping Centre manager Les Lyon, will advise the town centre improvement manager on proposed projects and ensure they fit the needs of the local area.
Chairman of the EPDB Robert Mee said: “Strategic management has been shown to really make a difference in reviving high streets.
“Ellesmere Port’s town centre is critical for the success of local businesses and is a great local asset.
“Marks & Spencer and the council have enabled us to appoint a town centre improvement manager and our first task is to bring a voice to local businesses, residents and landowners, ensuring that any improvements carried out best suit the local community.
“I am delighted that Les has agreed to chair the forum and I would now encourage anyone interested in having their say on the future of Ellesmere Port’s town centre to contact us.
“Ellesmere Port is starting to reap the benefits from recent developments in the education, retail and employment which have cemented positivity about the town’s future. Further work must now take place to build on this growth and ensure economic longevity.”
Tasked with a range of actions including establishing a regular resident, trader and landowner forum, initiating short-term improvement plans, carrying out public realm improvements and working to improve gateways and approaches, the town centre manager will work closely with businesses, residents and the council.
Chair of the newly established Town Centre Improvements Advisory Board, Les Lyon, said: “I hope that the board will provide insight, comment and support for future improvements to the town centre.
“It’s a great opportunity to make a real difference.”
For more information or to join the forum contact Mr Hollestelle by emailing jochem.hollestelle@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or calling 01244 976745.
