Northgate News

9.46.09pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 29th Mar 2007

At long last work is about to start on Chester's new Northgate Development.

Demolition of such eyesores as St Martins House and Commerce House is due to start in April. This new development will bring Chester

• a New Department Store

• a New Library

• a New Market

• a New Performing Arts Centre

• a New Bus Station

• a New Multistorey Car Park

• More shops

All these are long overdue and will revitalise the city centre for both residents and visitors. Part of the deal with the developers involves demolishing the City Council Offices and relocating them in a new building at Gorse Stacks. Modern architecture usually excites critical interest - and this building is no exception!

Whatever you think of the design -

The developers are providing the new building (ie no cost to Council Taxpayers) albeit on a site owned by the Council

The present design was supported by members from all parties on the City Council

The building will be worth about £30 million to the City Council when complete. Should we throw away an asset of this value?

Replacement car parking will be built on the site of the former Delamere St Bus Station

Cancelling this part of the scheme could threaten the entire project

It's also true that many buildings and landmarks which faced fierce opposition at the planning stage are now popular - Sydney Opera House, the Angel of the North, and - rather closer to home - the Eastgate Clock! Who knows . . . . .?