Warrington Council considers managing the CPS Centre’s first floor to help traders and local businesses stay open.
Shivat Haminim Capital Ltd owns the centre since 2021. They cited fire safety concerns for their decision. Repairs are needed fast, and these repairs are vital for safety.
The eviction letter mentioned a report which highlighted life-threatening hazards. Upgrades must happen within weeks. The centre will close March 1st, so essential upgrades will then begin.
Traders are upset about the eviction and have started a petition. However, the fire service thinks eviction is not needed, believing work can happen without it.
Warrington North MP spoke about it in Parliament and discussed it with Keir Starmer on Wednesday. Cllr Neil Johnson spoke with the landlord’s lawyers, and it was a helpful discussion.
A solution might be possible. Warrington Council could manage the first floor, which could let traders keep operating there and help local businesses remain open.
The council would manage and maintain the space. There would be costs to consider for this, but the council would also receive income from businesses, which could balance the expenses.
Only a proposal has been made so far. No agreement is in place now, and terms still require agreement. Cllr Johnson thinks it’s worth exploring.
Cllr Johnson contacted Steven Broomhead, the Warrington Council chief. He wants them to discuss the proposal.
The Warrington Guardian asked the council for comment. Broomhead said they talk to the local MP and ward councillors regularly.
The council understands the eviction’s impact, affecting businesses and the community. Councils don’t normally intervene in private disputes, which happen often.
The council will help if practical and feasible and are offering temporary storage for the businesses.