Traditional timber-framed buildings in Northwich restored thanks to Townscape Heritage Project
Improvements have now been completed on 14 of the unique traditional timber-framed buildings in Witton Street and High Street in Northwich town centre thanks to the Townscape Heritage Project.
The Townscape Heritage Project complements the major regeneration works taking place in the town and helps to preserve the historic heritage of Northwich for future generations alongside modern development.
Many of the buildings are locally listed and have benefited from restoring specific heritage features that have been lost and improvements to front elevations and timber frames.
The Council presented a successful bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2015 which facilitated a grant support programme helping businesses to finance improvements to shop frontages with a focus on restoring heritage features.
Initiatives to promote the heritage and the history of the buildings to residents, visitors and businesses have also been funded by the project. This includes an education programme for local schools such as a town trail, numerous stalls, exhibitions, community events, and walking tours. A Building Maintenance Guide has also been distributed to town centre businesses, and plaques marking the end of project are being erected.
The project was strongly supported by Northwich Business Improvement District (BID), who supported the initial bid, engaged with businesses and residents about the project, supported Heritage Open Days, and arranged for a number of property owners to give tours and history talks to visitors.
Councillor Richard Beacham, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Growth, Economy and Regeneration, said:
This project really highlights the long-term commitment of the Council to preserving the history and investing in the future of Northwich. It has been a significant achievement to pull together the funding and expertise, so that we could work with property owners to deliver this transformational change over the past few years. Preserving the character of Northwich is vital and that’s why the completion of this project complements our latest investment programme in the Northwich Library, where another important building is being preserved, protected and renewed for future generations to enjoy.
To find more information about the Townscape Heritage Project visit: