Earlestown is set to undergo a major transformation with the unveiling of updated regeneration plans by St Helens Borough Council and the English Cities Fund (ECF). A series of public exhibitions have been scheduled to present these plans, preceding the submission of a Reserved Matters planning application for the Market Square and detailed planning applications for the Town Hall.

The initiative aims to restore Earlestown’s standing as a thriving market town. Central to the proposal is a significant upgrade to the historic Market Square, one of the oldest working markets in the UK. Plans include the installation of a permanent market canopy, designed to reflect the iconic nine arches of the Sankey Viaduct. This feature will provide shelter for year-round market activities and facilitate event hosting.

The Market Square will see enhancements like high-quality paving, seating areas, family-friendly features, public art, and extensive planting. These improvements are aimed at creating a versatile space suitable for Earlestown’s historic market and various other events throughout the year.

The Grade II-listed Town Hall is also set for a comprehensive refurbishment to serve as a vibrant hub for commercial and community use. This includes internal renovations to provide community spaces, flexible offices, workspaces, meeting rooms, and a new café. The external courtyard will benefit from landscaping, adding to the amenity space.

Key streets in the town centre, including Market Street and Queen Street, will undergo upgrades to enhance the area’s historic character and create a more inviting environment for pedestrians. This redevelopment will incorporate sustainable features like street trees and drainage systems.

Community members will have the opportunity to view the plans and provide feedback at various exhibitions and through the consultation website, earlestown.co.uk. The consultation period is set to open later this month.

This regeneration project, which received £20 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, is part of a 20-year partnership between St Helens Borough Council and The English Cities Fund. The partnership focuses on transforming St Helens Borough, with Earlestown and St Helens town centres as the primary areas of development.

Cllr David Baines, leader of St Helens Borough Council, and Tom Ivinson, Development Manager at the English Cities Fund, have both emphasised the potential of these plans to revitalise Earlestown, enhancing its infrastructure and appearance for the benefit of both traders and visitors.