NORTHWICH is leading the way when it comes to town centre regeneration, according to the latest Government minister to pay a visit.

Greg Clark, Minister of State for Cities and Constitution surveyed Baron’s Quay, Memorial Court and Hayhurst Quay when he visited on Monday.

He was joined by Weaver Vale MP Graham Evans, Cheshire West and Chester (CWAC) leader Clr Mike Jones and CWAC deputy leader Clr Eveleigh Moore Dutton, who are seeking Government support for future regeneration projects in the town.

Mr Clark said: “Northwich is leading the way.

“Graham was particularly keen for me to see it myself – I see proposals from councils all over the country but he said that we’re actually getting on with it and are in the next phases in Northwich.

“He said this is a place you can back – there’s confidence that the council is going to be delivering on its commitments because it’s already doing it.

“A lot of places in the country recognise the potential for regeneration but a lot are still talking about it.”

Mr Clark explained that he was interested in enhancing the role of local councils.

“One of the things I want to do is give more power to progressive councils,” he said.

“I’m trying to get decision making returned here so they can invest in the future of their economy.

“My view is that people who live and work in an area are the best ones to make decisions and it is clear looking here that CWAC has a very strong vision on what it takes to make the most of the assets in Northwich.”

He praised planned and existing developments on the waterfronts of the River Dane and River Weaver and was interested in the idea of a cinema in the town centre, which CWAC hopes will create a family-friendly night time economy.

“It’s already a very attractive town and is going to be a real hot spot for the north west,” he said.