Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 5, The regeneration of St Helens town centre in the United Kingdom has reached a key stage with the approval of reserved matters planning for the first phase of redevelopment. Covering 24 acres, this stage will transform the former Hardshaw Shopping Centre into new buildings, public spaces, and climate-resilient landscaping.

The phase spans 24 acres.

The initiative is a partnership between St Helens Borough Council and the English Cities Fund, a joint venture of Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse. With planning consent granted, construction is set to begin, led by main contractor VINCI Building. Demolition and site preparation have been ongoing throughout this year.

The scheme is backed by a £69.2m ($92.91m) investment package from the council, supported by contributions from the UK government. These include £7.24m allocated from the Town Deal and £812,000 from the One Public Estate Brownfield Land Release Fund dedicated to housing development.

Phase One will deliver a variety of facilities. Plans include a Market Hall, a 120-room Hampton by Hilton-branded hotel, 56 apartments, eight townhouses, and 4,266 square feet of retail space, as outlined in a statement released by Muse. The development will also introduce landscaped areas designed to encourage biodiversity through pollinator-friendly plants, greenery, and enhanced routes for walking, cycling, and wheeling.

The project is expected to achieve a biodiversity net gain exceeding 1,000% and will incorporate public art and play facilities for the community. These improvements aim to create an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally supportive urban space.

From an economic perspective, Phase One is projected to generate 485 jobs and add £23.2m annually in gross value to the local economy. This growth is intended to provide long-term benefits to St Helens by creating employment and supporting wider regeneration goals.

The redevelopment is being coordinated with the St Helens Transport Interchange, which received planning approval in July. Funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority through a £710m City Region Transport Settlement, along with £3.25m from the Town Deal, the interchange will serve bus users, cyclists, and pedestrians. The integration of improved transport infrastructure with new housing, retail, and leisure facilities reflects the project’s focus on connectivity and sustainable urban living.

The regeneration of St Helens town centre is positioned as a major milestone in the borough’s development strategy. With strong financial backing, a mix of housing, hospitality, and commercial facilities, and a clear emphasis on environmental and social outcomes, the first phase sets the foundation for future stages of transformation.