New chapter planned for Wrexham as ambitious plans for new town centre development submitted

A new chapter could soon begin in Wrexham town centre after ambitious plans to create a new retail and leisure facility were formally submitted.

The ‘Chapter Court’ scheme proposes the redevelopment of the block of shops in the Argyle Street, Queens Square, Queens Street and Hope Street area.

Described by the applicants as a “micro retail and micro food court”, the development aims to “attract national high street retailers back to the original end of town and attract smaller, more independent local businesses.”

It is hoped the space will also become home to the the “‘go-to’ places to eat and drink and with the development of the court yard that can host year round events will offer customers a new, cultural shopping and leisure experience giving them a reason for return visits.”

Plans for the site have been in the making for the last 12 months, with signage for the proposed redevelopment on display on several of the shops which will be involved in the project for some time.

Documents submitted for consideration by the council show a revamp of the area, with the current loading area at the back of the Town Square building will be turned into an “external open air courtyard that will hold various year round events”.

The courtyard area is described as being “designed to create a functional, adaptable space that will draw people in”, with recent developments in Camden Market and Birmingham cited as inspiration for the project.

Connecting to this area will be the creation of with three arcades and new entrances from Hope Street, Queens Street and Queens Square.

The Queens Street Arcade uses the old CEX, GBC and Warren James stores to create a “micro retail arcade” which will link Queens Street to the courtyard. A similar entrance would be created on Queens Square by utilising the former Jeff Furniture store and hairdressers.

On the first floor the applicants say there will be various uses such as bars, restaurants, studio spaces and offices all of which have break out areas that link back into the court yard through the use of a walkway.

The application concludes: “Every effort has been made to make the proposed development blend in the existing surroundings and street scene whilst still maintaining a level of individuality.

“Environmental needs have been considered in terms of sustainable features, energy efficiency, layout and transport with a clear commitment to reduce carbon emissions.

“This statement also demonstrates that the project is fully in line with national and local planning policy, and the supporting documentation demonstrates the technical acceptability of the scheme.

“From its inception a consistent theme throughout the Chapter Court project has been that it must serve the needs and meet the aspirations of the people of the town as part of the wider masterplan for the regeneration of the town centre.

“It is Wrexham’s Council’s belief, together with that of its consultant team, that the proposals contained in the application and explained in this Planning, Design and Access Statement provide an exciting vision for the redevelopment of the town centre, derived through a robust and inclusive process.

“The proposals will make a positive contribution to the town centre and help to bring a new level of vibrancy and activity to the town.”

The application will be considered for approval at a later date.

Pictures: Planning Documents