Culcheth CPS Centre: Solution Suggested After Meeting, Says Councillor

CPS Centre owners gave tenants eviction notices in January. The deadline was February 28. Shivat Haminim Capital Ltd bought the centre in 2021. They cited fire safety issues as the reason.

The eviction letter mentioned a report. This report stressed the need for fire safety work. Owners said the centre must close March 1, 2025. They needed to fix life-threatening hazards. However, the fire service thinks work can happen without evictions.

The Warrington North MP spoke about it in Parliament. She brought it up with Sir Keir Starmer. Local businesses are upset about the evictions. Some have operated there for many years.

Councillor Neil Johnson had a good talk with Landswood De Coy. They represent the landlords of CPS Centre. Landswood De Coy suggested a plan. The council could take over the first floor. Then, they could license spaces to businesses. This would let businesses keep operating.

It would also ensure they stay open long term. The council would manage and maintain the space. This would involve some costs. However, the council would get income from the businesses. It might offset any expenses.

This plan is only a suggestion so far. No agreements exist yet. Terms must get decided on, but it’s worth exploring. Councillor Johnson thinks Landswood De Coy is negotiating fairly. He wants the council to do the same.

There are no guarantees. But this could be a positive step. It provides hope for the tenants. He contacted Warrington Council’s chief executive. He wished to connect him to Landswood De Coy. They can discuss the suggestion then.

Councillor Johnson wants a reasonable solution. He hopes to protect jobs and businesses. Saving the shops benefits everyone. The council has a chance to assist. But, they must agree on the terms first.