Skelmersdale to undergo 20m revamp

New plans to revamp Skelmersdale’s town centre have been given the go-ahead by the local council.

The £20m development, drawn up by St Modwen, will include new restaurants and shops, a petrol station, public spaces and a five-screen cinema complex. It is estimated that it could create as many as 350 jobs.

Proposals include linking The Concourse shopping centre and West Lancashire College with the new areas, with a promenade terrace joining the two. There will also be a new public square to enhance the setting around the existing Nye Bevan swimming pool and library, and a new children's play area in the Tawd Valley Park.

Martin Forshaw, West Lancashire Borough Council portfolio holder for planning and development, said: "The regeneration of Skelmersdale town centre will bring huge benefits to everyone in the borough, not just those living in the town.”

Paul Batho, projects director at St Modwen, said: "The council's decision on the planning application brings the vision for the town centre one step closer in the process.

"The participation of the local community has really supported the efforts of the partners, who have worked hard to keep the plans alive throughout these challenging times.

"There is still a long way to go over the coming months but we will continue to work closely with West Lancashire Borough Council and HCA to develop plans for delivery of the scheme."