PLANNING APPLICATION SUBMITTED FOR WIGAN ENTERPRISE PARK

Plans for the redevelopment of Wigan Enterprise Park have moved a step forward after a planning application was submitted to Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council by leading regeneration specialist, St. Modwen.

The scheme, which is expected to create 100 permanent construction jobs, will bring forward the redevelopment of the existing Enterprise Park, creating up to 325 much-needed family homes and extensive areas of landscaping and public open space. The plans follow a decline in the park’s operational use and lettings and a public consultation in 2012, which highlighted the need for family housing in the area.

The existing Enterprise House and newly developed Enterprise Court commercial space will remain unaffected, but will continue to offer an improved, quality offer for businesses.

In addition, the scheme will provide the first phase of a new link road between Seaman Way and Phoenix Way to Manchester Road and Warrington Road, helping alleviate congestion and bringing easier access in and around this area of Wigan.

Nick Whittingham, Land Director at St. Modwen, said: “These plans aim to regenerate the oldest parts of the site that are in real need of investment. St. Modwen has made every effort to ensure the future of commercial space on this site. However, the recent demolition of a 160,000 sq ft industrial space that had remained vacant for two years, coupled with a challenging business lettings market and the antiquated state of these buildings, meant that a new masterplan was needed for the site. 

“Under the plans, the site will combine an improved business and enterprise offering at Enterprise Court which has the potential to be added to in the future, with much needed family housing. This region is facing a significant shortage of new homes and our plans will deliver a meaningful contribution to the town’s housing supply. We believe that this scheme represents the most viable masterplan for the site in the long term.”

The proposed development has been developed following discussions with Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council.
Businesses based at the Enterprise Park are under short term flexible leases and have been notified of future arrangements for the site. All existing contracts on site will be honoured.