To receive an update on the Towns Fund projects.
Minutes:
The Board received an update on several of the Towns Fund Projects and Programme Management updates from Jez Goodman, Development and Regeneration Manager, and individual project sponsors.
Repurposing Our High Streets Grant Scheme – Potential for the occupiers of TADIC to apply for a grant. There had been positive discussions with the new owners of Burford House who are exploring new retail units.
Cheshire Archive / Public Realm – Ice Cream Van element had been delivered to Cheshire College S&W and plans were progressing for its use at events over the summer.
TADIC – Low-key operation commenced 21 July with paying occupiers and marketing now underway to other potential businesses and entrepreneurs. Expected to be fully operations when an operator was in place from October 2025.
The Dome Youth Zone – Programme impacted by 11 weeks of delay due to utilities issues. High Street works due to complete shortly although will close again briefly to facilitate the final phase of the Southern Gateway. A funding gap of £400,000 remains. Forecasting Summer 2026 opening.
Crewe Youth Club - Outstanding S278 works on the entrance road / footpath was currently under construction.
Cumberland Arena – Site demolition had been completed and foundation works commenced. Utility companies have commenced some of their preliminary works. PR to be issued with steelwork construction commences. Expected to complete in February / March 2026.
Pocket Parks – Construction works had completed in Lime Tree Avenue and the park was now partially open with full opening in September 2025 and the planning scheme to be completed in winter 2025 / 2026. Work had commenced on Samuel Street and was expected to open in September 2025. A consultation had been completed regarding Westminster Street and Valley Brook Pocket Parks with 81% support. Vandalised equipment at Derby Docks would be replaced utilising the contingency after school holidays. Issues of antisocial behaviour regarding drug and alcohol use at several sites had been raised and CCTV was being installed at various sites. The Board requested targeted walk-abouts from the Police at the known sites and for the police to provide feedback where issues had been raised.
Jubilee / Wishing Well - New outdoor community space intended to be operated by Wishing Well charity. Awaiting outcome of planning application – if the outcome in favourable works will commence in September 2025 with completion in early 2026.
Lyceum Square – Exhibit boards now installed with regular programme being developed.
Warm and Healthy Homes – Procurement process for repairs, drain surveys, tree removal and replacement and rainwater goods replacement had commenced, which would determine how much money could be allocated to each project. A policy review was underway to determine homeowner contributions to mitigate dropout.
Southern Gateway - Main works completed but due to issue with supplier of steel fencing, the route would not open until mid-September 2025.
Mill Street Corridor – Cheshire East Highways and Taylor Woodrow commenced main Phase 2a works on 23 June. Site clearance was almost complete and footpath diversions were in place. Basements from old terraces had been identified which required archaeological monitoring and potentially additional infill. Phase 2b was expected to complete by Spring 2026.
Royal Arcade - Phase 1 worked were nearing completion. The planning application for Phase 2 (hardstanding, footpaths, seating, lighting, recreation spaces, etc.) was live with a decision expected in late August 2025. Manchester and Cheshire Construction had been appointed. Phase 2 expected to be complete in early 2026.
RESOLVED:
That the updates be noted.