Phase One of St Helen's regeneration approved

The transformation of St Helens town centre has reached a critical milestone with the granting of reserved matters planning consent for Phase One of the borough's landmark regeneration scheme. The decision paves the way for main contractor VINCI Building to begin construction on a project that will significantly reshape the town's central district.

The redevelopment, covering 24 acres at the heart of St Helens, is being delivered through a partnership between St Helens Borough Council and ECF — a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse. The consented Phase One scheme includes a new Market Hall, a 120-bed Hampton by Hilton hotel, 56 apartments, eight townhouses, and over 4,200 sq ft of modern-format retail space.

The scheme replaces the former Hardshaw Shopping Centre and features a strong emphasis on sustainability and biodiversity. Key elements include climate-resilient landscaping, pollinator-friendly planting, and improved routes for walking, cycling, and wheeling. According to the developers, the project will deliver a Biodiversity Net Gain of more than 1,000%, alongside public play equipment and integrated public art.

Matt Whiteley, Senior Project Manager at ECF, highlighted the importance of sustainability and community value, citing the use of low-carbon materials such as exposed structural timber in the Market Hall and enhanced green infrastructure. "Beyond environmental benefits, this scheme is about lasting community value: job creation, inclusive growth, and public spaces that make St Helens an even better place to live, work, and visit," he said.

The regeneration aligns with the council's Inclusive Growth Strategy, with Phase One projected to generate 485 new jobs and an annual Gross Value Added (GVA) of £23.2 million. Councillor Anthony Burns, Leader of St Helens Borough Council, called the approval a "defining moment" for the town. "This is an opportunity to create a reimagined town centre that works for everyone," he said.

The project is supported by a £69.2 million funding package from the council, with additional contributions from the UK Government. These include £7.24 million from the Town Deal and £812,000 from the One Public Estate Brownfield Land Release Fund, aimed at enabling new housing development.

The regeneration is also closely linked to the new St Helens Transport Interchange, which received planning approval in July. Funded through the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s £710 million City Region Transport Settlement and an additional £3.25 million from the Town Deal, the interchange will provide an upgraded gateway for bus passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Together, the developments represent a coordinated effort to create a more vibrant, connected, and sustainable urban centre, with long-term benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Construction on Phase One is expected to begin shortly.