Trafford Council chiefs are celebrating an exciting £17.6m windfall to regenerate and transform Stretford town centre.

The council applied for the funding and Stretford was chosen as one of only four areas of the North West to receive the full allocation from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s £830m Future High Streets Fund.

The announcement comes as a major boost to Trafford Council as the funding now means it can push forward with ambitious plans to totally transform the town as part of its Stretford Masterplan.  

The huge plans for the area include a new, expanded high street, with enhanced landscaping and better transport links, providing a focal point for the community to enjoy.  

It will focus specifically on improvements to public spaces and pedestrian and cycle movements, as well as securing a long-term solution for the Essoldo cinema, and developing Stretford Mall and Lacy Street.

This could open up access to the Bridgewater Canal and the opportunity for new bars, restaurants, and affordable homes.

The Government says the funding is designed to “support areas to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic and help transform underused town centres into vibrant places to live, work, visit and shop.“ 

Stretford was selected for the full allocation by the Government alongside Stockport, Winsford and Birkenhead. Areas including Wigan, Crewe, Rochdale, Oldham, Carlisle and New Ferry also received funding.

Cllr Andrew Western, Leader of Trafford Council said: “This is absolutely amazing news for Stretford and a great end to a terrible year. We have already made massive improvements to Stretford and this will enable us to totally transform the area for residents and business alike. Trafford Council has made it a major priority to revitalize all our town centres and Stretford is no exception. We have incredible plans for the area.”

The Government says the funding will also help to protect and create jobs in a range of industries, delivering opportunities and prosperity to local communities. 

Minister for High Streets Kelly Tolhurst said: “Towns across the North West have a proud history of industry and commerce, and we are supporting them to preserve this heritage for future generations. In Stockport, £14.5 million will support plans to redevelop Mersey Square and repurpose empty retail units, supporting local businesses and jobs. And in Stretford, £17.6 million will help revitalise the high street with landscaping and an improved retail offer. The year ahead will be a big one for high streets in the North West, with government investing across the region to help create vibrant places that communities are proud of, supporting recovery from the pandemic and delivering on our Plan for Jobs.”