Wednesday 25th June 2008
(ref:
186/2008)
Wigan’s historic Trencherfield Mill – undergoing a massive £35m redevelopment – has received the seal of approval from a top UK planner.
Janet O’Neill, president of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and an expert in urban regeneration, was visiting Wigan to meet young planning officers and see for herself the regeneration of the town.
“Wigan is really holding its own against the demands of the modern economy,” said Rochdale-born O’Neill. “High quality new flats and office space in the mill bring together the old and the new really well.”
The council’s planning boss, Martin Kimber, and representatives of the developers took Ms O’Neill around the grade 2 listed building. Parts of Trencherfield had been empty for decades but now, with swish new apartments and an arts and heritage centre set to open in 2010, the mill is firmly back in business.
Mr Kimber said:
“It was an honour to welcome Janet O’Neill to Wigan to see how we are shaping the future with the new Pier Quarter and its emphasis on arts, recreation, commerce and space for living. Approval from the Royal Town Planning Institute is another reason for us all to feel proud of where we are as a community.”
As president of the institute, Janet O’Neill has pledged to support the next generation of planners and promote their development. Following her tour of the restored Mill, she met young planning officers from the council’s environmental services department.
Ms O’Neill told them:
“I’m keen to encourage the new generation of planners, who are choosing to work as public servants for the benefit of their local environment and community.”
The next stage of the refurbishments to Trencherfield Mill will see work to the grounds, including painting of the pumps and wheels. Recently a lighting scheme was installed to provide subtle and attractive coloured lights around the roof of the landmark building.
Cllr David Molyneux, deputy leader of the council and cabinet champion for environment and regeneration, said:
“The success of all the major schemes underway in the borough depends on Wigan Council working well with everyone involved - from before the first brick is even laid and long after the project is finished.
“We are delighted that the RTPI President and her colleagues have been able to see at first hand some really good examples of how we are doing this in Wigan.”
Note to editors
More info: Steve Thompson, principal planning officer, 01942 404246
