Archive Council News

14.05.04

Innovative development proposals selected for Eagles Meadow.

Wrexham Council's Executive Board has chosen an exciting and innovative development that will change the face of Eagles Meadow, Wrexham.

The proposal, with an end value of circa £60 million has been put forward by developers Wilson Bowden and their Architects Bernard Engle.

The transformation will include a department store and bowling alley, as well as additional retail floor space, café bars and restaurants that will inject new vibrancy into the area. It is another piece in the jigsaw that has seen Wrexham transform from a traditional market town into a quality, retail centre of regional importance. It is proposed that the inner ring road (including what is known locally as the Asda fly-over) will be re-routed to improve traffic flow and accessibility as part of the re-development.

The landmark scheme will bring 225,000 square feet of retail floor space including a flagship department store occupying 85,000 sq ft of retail floor space and approximately 50 apartments to be developed by Wilson Bowden City Homes. The concept design includes pedestrian walk-ways and plazas, bringing city living to Wrexham. The use of underground level car parking, providing over 1,000 spaces, with the building levels raised to match the surrounding streetscape, will enhance the links to the town centre.

Eagles Meadow is the site of the former Asda supermarket and is currently used as a car park.

Wrexham County Borough Council's Strategic Director, Paul Roberts said:

"We received a number of excellent presentations offering proposals to change the face of this part of Wrexham. However, the ideas, designs and vision put forward by Wilson Bowden and the architect Bernard Engle were outstanding. Members found their proposals to be innovative and fresh - a development that will transform this part of town and underpin the on-going regeneration of Wrexham."

Chief Executive, Isobel Garner said:

"We are delighted that quality retail and leisure operations have shown confidence in the potential of Wrexham. This is another piece in the jigsaw for the transformation of Wrexham town centre and is nothing more than our residents and visitors deserve. Wrexham is already a highly successful retail and commercial centre and this latest proposal can only enhance our ranking in National terms."

Nick Richardson, Managing Director of Wilson Bowden Developments said:

"We are delighted to have been selected by Wrexham County Borough Council to deliver our vision for Eagles Meadow. We believe we can help Wrexham build on recent successes and further improve the town as a recreational and retail destination. We also see significant potential to provide city living apartments and we are excited to be working alongside Wrexham County Borough Council on this project."

Chris Wieszczycki of Bernard Engle Architects said:

"Wrexham needs to build on its attractive market town character. That is why our scheme is designed around a series of dynamic, new urban spaces which are fully integrated within an existing network of streets and squares. The new distinctive buildings will provide a landmark gateway into the town centre. Our concept recognises the prominence of St Giles Parish Church making its spire the focal point of the main pedestrian promenade."