Private partner Cityheart has been granted planning permission by Wigan Council for the redevelopment of the Galleries Shopping Centre.
The plans include detailed and outline proposals covering an array of leisure facilities such as a multi-screen cinema, 10-lane bowling alley, new food and drink outlets, multi-purpose venue and indoor mini golf. There will also be a pavilion providing restaurants and evening entertainment, plus a new market hall.
A new hotel and 464 new high-quality homes, including retirement living, will also be built as part of the initiative.
Cityheart was chosen as the joint venture partner in December last year, as the lead member of the Galleries25 group that also includes Beijing Construction Engineering Group International (BCEGI).
“By working with our appointed contractor, BCEGI, Wigan Council and the local community, we look forward to realising our vision and delivering a vibrant new destination for the town centre with green outdoor spaces and stunning buildings,” said Cityheart director, Warren Taylor.
Securing planning permission means that the programme is on course for work to begin on site in January 2022 as previously planned.