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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What planning permissions have been secured for the project?
Outline consent for the first phase of the St Helens town centre development was granted through a Hybrid Planning application on 23 March 2023. The subsequent Reserved Matters application, necessary to finalise the details following the Hybrid consent, is scheduled for determination in Summer 2025. This will mark the completion of the planning process.
What is the purpose of the agreed Masterplan Development Framework?
The Masterplan Development Framework provides a comprehensive vision for the regeneration of the town centre, ensuring that the development is high-quality, sustainable and centred around the needs of the community.
By setting out a clear plan for new infrastructure, including a hotel, bus station, market, residential units, and community spaces, it aims to boost local economy and create vibrant public spaces.
Extensive public consultations were conducted to shape the framework, ensuring that the development reflects the aspirations and needs of the residents.
How is the project being funded?
The scheme is supported by several funding partners, including St Helens Council, ECF, Towns Fund, One Public Estate Brownfield Land Release Fund, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCR CA) and City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS).
What stalls will be in the new market?
The new market hall in St Helens town centre will feature approximately 29 stalls. These will include a variety of food and beverage outlets, a cafe, a bar, and a performance area. The market hall is designed to be a vibrant space that caters to visitors throughout the day and evening, offering a mix of local produce, artisanal goods, and dining options.
Details on how you can become a stall holder will be advertised as the development progresses.
How can I express an interest in taking a retail unit in the scheme?
If you are interested in taking a retail unit in the St Helens town centre development scheme, Barker Proudlove has been appointed as the retail agent for Phase 1a. To express your interest, please contact Barker Proudlove – gary@barkerproudlove.co.uk / simon@barkerproudlove.co.uk / 07966 181708 who will provide you with the necessary information and guide you through the application process.
What are you proposing?
Phase 1A will include:
Hampton by Hilton branded hotel, comprising 120 rooms;
A new modern market hall, incorporating retail, food and beverage stalls;
New homes, including apartments and townhouses;
New retail units;
A new and extended bus station linked to the rail station creating a multi modal St Helens Transport Interchange within the heart of the town centre; and
Extensive public spaces linking the new development to the St Helens Transport Interchange and Church Square.
How will these proposals be sustainable?
The St Helens town centre regeneration scheme is designed with sustainability at its core. Here are some key aspects that make it sustainable.
Energy-Efficient Buildings – All new homes in the scheme are design to be highly energy efficient and will feature advanced insulation, efficient heating systems, and energy-efficient windows all of which contribute to lower energy consumption.
Biodiversity Enhancement: The project aims to deliver a Biodiversity Net Gain of over 1000%, with new public spaces enhanced by trees, plants and wildlife.
Sustainable Transport: A new modern multi-modal St Helens Transport Interchange will replace the outdated bus station, promoting sustainable travel options.
Public Spaces: The regeneration will create high-quality landscaped areas, better walking routes, and inviting public spaces that encourages community interaction.
Net Zero Aspirations: The overall masterplan aligns with the Council’s net zero aspirations, addressing the climate crisis through sustainable buildings and transport infrastructure.
These measures collectively aim to create a vibrant, sustainable, and people-friendly town centre for St Helens.
Why does St Helens need a hotel?
St Helens is already attracting increasing numbers of business travellers because of developments such as Glass Futures, SINA medical glass and the major employers in the area, coupled with the success of its sporting and leisure attractions. St Helens is also one of the main beneficiaries of Liverpool City Region’s new status as a Life Sciences Investment Zone. The St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus is part of the Investment Zone and has the potential to deliver £800m of public and private investment, creating 8,000 new jobs across Liverpool City Region as a whole.
How can local businesses get involved in the scheme?
It is very important to St Helens Borough Council that local businesses can benefit from the regeneration of the town centre wherever possible. Our construction partner Vinci are already working with a number of local suppliers and are keen to encourage further interest. Local businesses can register their interest by selecting the Supplier tab here and completing the form.
Will there be jobs for local people?
A number of Jobs have already been created from the scheme, but there will be many more opportunities to get involved. VINCI Building has partnered with the Council’s Ways to Work service who will be promoting the opportunities.
If you are interested in working on the scheme, previous experience is not necessarily required as the Ways to Work service will be able to assist with training. Initial opportunities have been identified for:
Demolition
Civil Engineering
Groundworks
General labouring
Additional roles will be added as the development progresses.
To register your interest please contact Ways to Works:
01744 676131
When is it happening?
The Hardshaw Centre has now closed and enabling works have commenced ahead of its planned demolition in Summer 2025. The main contract works will then commence with completion aimed for early 2028.
ABOUT US
Our project is made possible through the generous support and funding from several organisations. We are deeply grateful for their contributions, which have been instrumental in bringing our vision to life.
St Helens Council
As a key partner in this initiative, St Helens Council has provided essential support and resources. Our commitment to the well-being and prosperity of our community has been a driving force behind the project’s success.
ECF
ECF, a partnership between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse, drives urban regeneration and development across England. Their investment has been pivotal in transforming our urban spaces, creating vibrant communities, and fostering economic growth.
Towns Fund
The Towns Fund is dedicated to driving economic regeneration and growth in towns across the UK. Their investment has been crucial in revitalising our community, enhancing infrastructure, and creating new opportunities for local residents.
City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS)
CRSTS aims to improve public transport and active travel infrastructure, making our cities more sustainable and accessible. Their funding has enabled us to develop innovative transport solutions that benefit everyone in our community.
One Public Estate (OPE)
OPE is a national program that supports local authorities in using public land and property to deliver better services and unlock economic growth. Their support has been vital in optimising our public assets and fostering collaboration across sectors. This project is supported through the Brownfield Land Release Fund which is administered on behalf of the Government by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.
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