Consultation begins on concept designs for Macclesfield town centre improvements

Cheshire East Council has launched a consultation to hear from Macclesfield residents and businesses as it prepares to move forward with regeneration and public realm improvements in the town centre.

The first stage of consultation will give the public a first-look at draft concept designs for public real enhancements in the historic Chestergate and Market Place areas of Macclesfield town centre.

Designs include introducing more greenery; widening pavement areas to improve the pedestrian experience and create more space for ‘alfresco’ use by cafés, bars and restaurants; and seeking opportunities to reduce carbon emissions and better showcase Macclesfield’s creativity and distinctiveness.

Peter Skates, Cheshire East Council’s director of growth and enterprise, said:

“The public consultation on our Macclesfield Strategic Regeneration framework in 2019 identified a strong desire to see the town centre environment enhanced, and highlighted that the public view Chestergate and Market Place as priority locations for regeneration.

“We are acting on those views and have launched this consultation to make sure that the final concept designs draw on local knowledge and are informed by local people.

“The vision for Macclesfield is about a town that celebrates its quirkiness; a town which is green, creative, connected and social. 

“And in putting together these draft designs, that vision has very much been kept in mind. I hope that residents and businesses alike will take the time to participate in our consultation – there are a variety of proposals and we encourage you to share your views.”

The consultation – which runs until 5pm on 1 October 2021 – follows work on the Castle Street public realm enhancement scheme in Macclesfield town centre, which began in April this year and is ongoing.

To view the draft concept designs and have your say, visit the online consultation page.