Gillespies, supported by Cushman & Wakefield, have presented an estate regeneration masterplan and delivery strategy for Worsley Mesnes, Wigan. The plan has been prepared for Wigan Council as part of the government’s National Estate Regeneration programme.

Investment in recent years by the council, including targeted demolitions and home improvements, has provided a platform for regeneration. Wigan Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) recognised the area’s regeneration potential and promoted the development of a delivery-focused masterplan, supported by an inclusive engagement process.

The Gillespies-led team has worked closely with the Council, the HCA, developers and local people – through workshops, drop-in sessions and engagement with young people – to develop the route map. The plan includes proposals for 278 new homes, remodelling of unsafe 1960’s streets, 7.5 ha of improved greenspace, as well as the creation of a new ‘heart’ for Worsley Mesnes, providing local shops, community space and a neighbourhood square.

Engagement with young people has re-focused attention on the importance of the environment and the provision of safe and attractive open spaces. This has been further emphasised by the involvement of health professionals as part of Wigan Council’s ‘place-based’ approach – multi-agency working and regeneration. The estate has almost two times the percentage of people with bad/very bad health than those in England and Wales as a whole. The council and its partners are committed to addressing this issue.

Councillor David Molyneux, Wigan Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, commented: “We have a long-term ambition to improve the Worsley Mesnes area for residents with significant regeneration investment. The views of residents and other groups and organisations within the local community form a vital part in getting the regeneration of the estate right. We hope they take the time to look at the masterplan and contribute to the improvement of their area and help the plan progress.”

Emerging development opportunities have been tested with local developers across the North West. One of the key next steps will be to attract a development partner to take forward these exciting proposals.