To receive an update on the Towns Fund projects.
Minutes:
The Board received an update on several of the Towns Fund Projects and Additional Programme Management updates from Jez Goodman, Development and Regeneration Manager, and individual project sponsors.
Following submission of the April – September Performance Report, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government had requested further clarification on project progress, and updated that extensions to project timescales would be confirmed on a case by case basis.
Repurposing Our High Streets – The number of vacant units was down from 32 to 24 with several new tenancies pending. New case study videos were now online at openincrewe.co.uk. Some minor amendments to the grant application process and criteria had been introduced to enable swifter process with fewer restrictions.
History Centre and Public Realm – The new History Centre build would commence in January 2025 with the replacement surface car park open from March 2025. The Ice Cream Van element was progressing in connection with Cheshire College South and West.
Youth Zone – Telecoms works were expected to recommence on 6 January 2025 and last approximately 3 – 4 weeks. There was likely to be disruption to those who use the service road for parking. Time delay risks could be mitigated through an extension of time for Youth Investment Fund and / or Towns Fund. A coal tar had been identified below the site which was being investigated.
Crewe Youth Club – Major building work underway and was on target for completion in March 2025.
Cumberland Arenda - Work on site to remove telegraph poles was due to start shortly and building works to commence January 2025 and to open by October 2025.
Valley Brook Corridor – The project was looking to actively change the project design to avoid highway impact. Alternative plans were being looked in to with a first draft of revised feasibility expected mid-January 2025 with updated provided to the Board in February 2025.
Warm and Health Homes – Improvements would be standardised and focus on the building fabric and windows. Red ash had been identified around the area of public realm.
Southern Gateway – Main works to be completed by March 2025.
Wayfinding – Two fingerposts to be installed at History Centre public realm site.
*Mill Street Corridor – Phase 1 works completed and Phase 2 works to commence in January 2025 with relocation of site compound to Railway Street car park.
*Pocket Parks – Contaminated land checks at Lime Tree Avenue were completed, with target for planting to comments at this location and Samuel Street in January 2025, with equipment to be installed March – April 2025. Westminster Street Pocket Park consultation expected January 2025 and to be completed by January 2026.
*Jubilee / Wishing Well Project – Planning application had been submitted and construction on site was hoping to commence in early 2025 and be completed by the summer.
* Projects not funded through the Towns Fund.
RESOLVED:
That the Valley Brook Project team would present to the Board on 7 February 2025.
That the updates be noted.