Andy Burnham is excited about a £250m project in Wigan. It promises over 1,200 jobs and aims to transform the area into a fantastic place to live.
Wigan: A big change is coming to Wigan with a £250m project. Andy Burnham, the mayor, is thrilled about it. This development will create over 1,200 jobs and transform the Eckersley Mill site.
The Heaton Group, a local family business, is behind this project. They’ve got full planning approval to turn the 17-acre site into a vibrant community. It will include 817 homes and affordable living options.
Burnham believes this is a great moment for Greater Manchester. He mentioned that more people are moving to the area. If they can’t afford the city, they’re looking at places like Wigan.
He also pointed out how close the site is to Wigan Wallgate train station. This station will soon be part of the Bee Network, making travel easier for residents.
Burnham is pushing for more housing near train stations. He wants to unlock funding to help Wigan grow. The Heaton Group bought the site in 2021 and has been working hard since then.
They’ve already started with the Feast at The Mills, a fun street food spot. The first phase of the project is Mill One, which is being restored with a new glass roof.
This phase will have office spaces and a food hall with six kitchens. There will also be a café, bars, and a stage for live music. It’s going to be a lively place!
Outdoor seating will be available for dining outside. Plus, a new pub will serve local craft beers. The rooftop will feature a co-working space and a rooftop bar.
In front of the mill, there will be a large plaza with green spaces and a town square. This area will host markets, outdoor movies, and concerts.
John Heaton, managing director of The Heaton Group, is proud of this project. He’s been working on revitalizing the mill site for five years. His family business has been around for over 50 years.
He’s excited about the jobs this project will create. They’re already employing many tradespeople, and that number will grow. He’s committed to restoring Wigan’s cultural heritage.
Wigan council leader David Molyneux also visited the site. He praised the project for breathing new life into the town. It’s all about creating spaces for people to live, work, and enjoy.
