Residents have the opportunity to give their views on the emerging Development Framework for the future of the Fiddler’s Ferry site. The Framework provides a coordinated and comprehensive approach to new development that takes into account the requirements of the Council’s planning policies and shows how the redevelopment will be achieved.
Fiddler’s Ferry, one of the largest brownfield sites in the region, and adjacent land is allocated in the recently adopted Warrington Local Plan for employment and residential use. Our sister company Deetu, acting on behalf of Peel NRE, are leading the consultation on the emerging Development Framework, which sets out the comprehensive development of a total of 101 hectares of employment land, 860 new homes, significant new public open space and supporting community infrastructure.
The employment element of the site will provide space to support 6,750 new jobs in a variety of roles. The land has been identified to provide modern premises for manufacturing and logistics businesses to respond to the existing shortage of this type of floorspace in the area. Delivering this space at Fiddler’s Ferry will provide opportunities for local businesses while bringing jobs back to the site.
The area is also suffering from a shortage of all types of homes, with many stuck on the housing waiting list or paying too much for their rent or mortgage. By delivering 860 new homes this redevelopment can help to give people the opportunity to enjoy the security of their own home. 30% of these new homes will be available via a variety of affordable schemes, such as: social rent, shared ownership and affordable rent.
The Development Framework also identifies how Peel NRE will improve the natural environment. This will include improving habitats, creating new habitats and increasing biodiversity.
In late 2022, Deetu worked in partnership with Peel NRE to conduct a consultation on the initial phase of the employment land that won the Best Public Engagement and Participation of a Brownfield Activity at the 2023 Brownfield Awards. The planning application for this first phase of re-development is waiting to be determined by Warrington Council.
Kieran Tames, Development Director for Peel NRE said “We are happy to be presenting our Development Framework for Fiddler’s Ferry. The plans will help deliver thousands of new jobs and hundreds of new homes, with green spaces and increased biodiversity to make it a place people can enjoy.
We are looking to hear from the wider community on how our plans could be improved and welcome the community’s involvement in this consultation.”
Josh Dickerson, Deetu Co-Founder added “The redevelopment of Fiddler’s Ferry presents a significant opportunity to the region. A defining chapter for the communities to actively shape and inform the future of the site, all while respecting the legacy of this historical monument to our industrial heritage.”
The consultation will run from Monday 15 January until Sunday 11 February. There are several ways to engage with the consultation including:
- The consultation can be viewed at https://my.engaged.space/fiddlersframework/.
- Attend a physical exhibition. Details can be found here.
- Book a one-to-one virtual drop-in session. Details can be found here.
- View the full Draft Development Framework and associated documents here.
For more information about Peel NRE or the demolition of the site, visit www.fiddlersferry.com