Project Overview
Chester Northgate Phase 1 is one of the largest city-centre regeneration projects undertaken in Chester in more than four decades. The development transformed a previously underutilized area behind the historic Town Hall into a vibrant cultural and leisure destination, creating a new civic heart for the city.
The masterplan brings together a modern indoor market, cinema, restaurants, cafés, retail spaces, offices, and a generous public square connected by enhanced pedestrian streets and high-quality landscape design. The project successfully strengthens links between Chester’s historic core and emerging cultural quarter, creating an attractive and accessible destination for residents and visitors. Landscape Design
The landscape strategy focused on creating a welcoming and flexible public realm that encourages social interaction, outdoor events, and everyday community activities. A new civic square forms the centrepiece of the development, connecting surrounding buildings through attractive pedestrian routes, high-quality paving, integrated seating, feature planting, and carefully coordinated lighting.
The streetscape has been redesigned to prioritise pedestrians, improve accessibility, and enhance movement throughout the city centre. Durable paving materials, soft landscape elements, and coordinated street furniture create a cohesive public environment while respecting the historic character of Chester. Heritage & Placemaking
Located within one of Britain’s most historically significant cities, the project carefully responds to Chester’s Roman and medieval heritage. The public realm has been designed to complement the surrounding historic architecture while creating contemporary civic spaces that support modern city life.
Archaeological discoveries made during construction influenced the design approach, ensuring the site’s historical significance was preserved and celebrated through sensitive urban design and placemaking. Sustainability
Sustainability was integrated throughout the development through the inclusion of green walls, new tree planting, biodiversity enhancements, sustainable drainage measures, and environmentally responsible construction practices.
The project also incorporates electric vehicle charging facilities, extensive cycle parking, wildlife habitats, and resource-efficient construction methods. During construction, the majority of site waste was recovered or recycled, supporting the project’s long-term environmental objectives.