A regional regeneration programme designed to transform a Midlands town has taken a major step forward.
The Transforming Nuneaton initiative, which has been planned for five years, is set to appoint its first development partner following the conclusion of the world’s largest property conference in March.
Transforming Nuneaton is a partnership between Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council (NBBC), Warwickshire County Council and the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership.
The scheme aims to create a vibrant town centre by improving and expanding leisure facilities, enhancing the retail sector, creating housing and improving the public transport and cycling infrastructure in and around the town centre.
A feasibility study has identified 12 sites for the Transforming Nuneaton initiative and NBBC is now seeking an innovative development partner for the Abbey Street Quarter.
A shortlist of four potential regeneration companies has now been drawn-up and the successful urban specialist is expected to be announced at the end of March just after the whole scheme as been showcased at MIPIM – the world’s largest commercial property development and investment show.
The Abbey Street site will retain the distinctive Art Deco Co-Operative building frontage and the new Quarter will provide flexible space for creative industries and start-up businesses, cultural uses and homes as well as cafes, restaurants and additional leisure opportunities.
Transforming Nuneaton will be promoted by the Coventry & Warwickshire MIPIM Partnership which is made up of companies and organisations who represent the area and is also part of the UK Midlands presence at the event which attracts 30,000 delegates.
Cllr Julie Jackson, leader of NBBC, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Nuneaton and we want to drive forward the growth of the town centre and change its profile as well as raise the aspirations of residents and visitors.”
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, leader of Warwickshire County Council, said: “Nuneaton is at the forefront of so many of the county council’s aspirations. We have a strategy to raise the level of educational attainment and ensure that the town has a skilled workforce with high ambitions and aspirations.
“Transforming Nuneaton will create an environment that sits alongside these growing aspirations. Our vision is to have a town centre that will attract investment, bring people into the town and, importantly, keep local residents there, with opportunities for training, employment, socialising and living in high quality town centre dwellings. It’s very exciting that things are gathering pace now.”