A BUSINESS hub near to the town centre is set for a major facelift.

Warrington Borough Council has granted planning permission for a renovation to the exterior of the St James Business Centre, off Brian Bevan Island.

The makeover will feature a new entrance area with the existing car port infilled, as well as a new ‘multi-functional social hub’ across the ground floor and first floor.

Warrington Guardian:

Branded the Shirt Factory, the ‘cutting edge’ scheme forms part of the Wire Regeneration project – a joint venture between the council and developer Langtree.

Submission documents stated: “Wire Regeneration is a joint venture between Langtree and Warrington Borough Council, formed in 2014 to bring forward a vibrant, attractive gateway with a mix of compatible uses integrated with the river and town centre.

“The Shirt Factory is an exciting new vision to redevelop St James Business Centre into the most dynamic innovation ecosystem in Warrington.

“This is a place where forward thinking creatives, technology small and medium-sized enterprises and complimentary service businesses can thrive together under one roof.

Warrington Guardian:

“It will enhance the competitiveness of a new generation of small and medium-sized enterprises and stimulate economic growth in the region.

“The development takes inspiration from the history and heritage of the site.

“Well-known to locals as Bennett’s Shirt Works, the site was previously a factory where shirts were made up until 1977.

“We propose to honour the legacy of craftsmanship here with the Shirt Factory, creating a place where modern industry will thrive and a new generation of entrepreneurs will hone their craft and develop their businesses.

“The site has sat comfortably alongside the grade two-listed St James Church for many years, and the new development will only maintain and enhance this relationship.”

WBC gave its consent for the works at the Wilderspool Causeway site on Wednesday, July 29.