Plans which will see over 400 homes built in Chester city centre have taken a step forward as the council signs off a pre-development agreement.

The next phase of the Chester Northgate development includes plans to deliver over 400 'high quality, low carbon homes' in a 'highly sustainable' location in the heart of Chester city centre.

This forms part of a larger target of 4,400 new homes to be delivered over the life of the plan, re-purposing existing buildings where possible, and demolishing any buildings at the end of their life.

Empty shops and buildings which are no longer fit for purpose will be replaced. In their place will be modern, affordable and sustainable town centre living, with public spaces and supporting infrastructure.

A pre-development agreement has now been signed by Cheshire West and Chester Council with VINCI UK Developments Limited, the Council's preferred development partner - marking a significant milestone.

The agreement sets out the collaboration between the council and VINCI UK Developments Limited, who will deliver the scheme through a joint venture with ION Property Developments Ltd, procured through the Pagabo Developer-led Framework. 

It will enable VINCI and ION to work up a masterplan for the Northgate site, carry out feasibility studies, landscape and highways surveys and to develop a business plan.

These activities will collectively inform the future redevelopment of the site, which is a key part of the Chester One City Plan. 

Councillor Nathan Pardoe said: "The Northgate redevelopment is a unique opportunity to create a vibrant and sustainable residential-led neighbourhood in the heart of Chester, delivering spaces that future generations will be proud of.

"Both VINCI and ION are committed to working with the community to co-produce the masterplan for the Northgate site.

"They will work with different stakeholders to ensure that the views of Chester are heard, and will start this process in the new year."

A spokesperson for VINCI ION said: "We look forward to working with the Council and the community to develop our plans for Northgate, replacing the 1960's empty shops and buildings that are past their useful life with a range of new modern and sustainable homes that will be a major boost for the city, helping drive its future growth and success."

You can find more information and updates on the Northgate project here.