THE £15 million redevelopment of a suburban multi-use complex officially opened in December 2015. The new-look Blacon Parade business centre in Chester incorporates both office and retail space as well as housing Blacon Library and rooms for community use.
Chester MP Chris Matheson officially opened the centre which has been in the pipeline for nearly a decade. He was joined by the Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr Hugo Deynem, and the Lady Mayoress, Deb Deynem, along with senior representatives from Sanctuary Group, CWAC and the European Regional Development Fund, who have helped finance the project. Mr Matheson said: “The Enterprise Centre has breathed new life into the area and I was delighted to play a role in today’s official opening. “The team from Avenue Services are not only helping to turn entrepreneurs’ ideas into reality, but they are also encouraging members of the public to take advantage of the shared spaces, and the centre is fast becoming a popular focal point for the whole community to enjoy.
Cllr Jones, who also sits on the board of Avenue Services, said: “Blacon sometimes has had an image problem. This new civic centre is symbolic of a renaissance. “People gain a real sense of pride when they see the new Parade. The new library, community and enterprise facilities are there for the Blacon residents.
Ian McDermott, Sanctuary’s chief operating officer, said: “It is thanks to our close collaborative working with CWAC and other key partners, that we have successfully brought this project to fruition. “The enterprise centre will provide the right environment for businesses to flourish and grow and we hope this will lead to the creation of more jobs and bring a vital boost to the local economy in the future.”
Hardscape supplied Kellen Breccia Rosso, Giallo, Tagenta E, Maron, Cottrio paving and Lavaro Retro Pars and Grijs paving. Landscape Architects: BCA Landscape, Liverpool. Contractors: Mayo Civil Engineering Ltd., Manchester.
