Work to move Whitchurch electricity substation nears completion

Work to relocate an electricity sub-station as part of phase one of the Whitchurch Civic Centre enhancement is set to be completed by the end of next week (week ending 22 November 2013).

The substation was located within the basement of the Civic Centre, and is being moved to the rear of the building by Scottish Power to enable the work to improve the Centre to be carried out.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for business growth, said:

“Moving the substation has been a big and complex job, but one that needed to be carried out to enable the work to enhance the Centre to be carried out. I’m pleased that this important work is set to be completed in time for the busy Christmas shopping period.”

Peggy Mullock, Shropshire Councillor for Whitchurch North, said:

“We are delighted that the work on the sub-station is nearing completion and would like to thank residents and traders for their patience during the disruption.”

Gerald Dakin, Shropshire Councillor for Whitchurch South, said:

“I am pleased that things in High Street are getting back to normal in time for the busy Christmas shopping period.”

The Civic Centre redevelopment plans include improvements to the façade and landscaping at the front of the building, internal alterations to create a more welcoming foyer, and a significant upgrade of the heating, water, and electrical systems.

Whitchurch Library is open as usual and can be accessed from St Mary’s Street, along with the weekly Friday market held in the market hall and on the car park at the rear of the Civic Centre.

The Civic Centre enhancement project began in September 2013 and is set to be completed in spring 2014.

The £724,000 project is being funded by: Shropshire Council, including funding from the council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme; Whitchurch Town Council; and from the Sainsbury’s Unilateral Undertaking funding for public realm improvements.

Further information

Whitchurch Civic Centre is owned by Shropshire Council.  The town library is provided within a small part of the building, with the rest of the building leased to Whitchurch Town Council, which manages the weekly market and a range of sporting and community functions, as well as providing civic functions.