READERS have been having their say on what they would like to see ahead of a major overhaul at Weaver Square Shopping Centre.

We reported earlier this week Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) has appointed Manchester-based architects Fletcher Rae to create a masterplan and establish a new vision for the shopping centre.

The first phase of consultation, which concludes on July 25, will be followed by further, more detailed rounds once draft plans have been brought forward based on the feedback of residents.

Readers have been having their say on the Northwich Guardian Facebook page and website with free parking top of their wishlist.

Aside from Primark being a popular demand, a Burger King and Nandos appeared to be some of the most popular food choices.

But many other readers called for more independent traders.

Emma Glittery’s suggestion proved popular with a number of readers.

She said: “Making it like a market street with a traditional butchers, bakers, cake shop, fishmongers, sweet shop, greengrocers, all in one place.”

She wasn’t the only one with this vision:

Jen Agogué: "A market street with butcher, baker etc a little cafe, arts and crafts shop, a little gallery with affordable paintings, prints, cards etc. Maybe I am dreaming!"

Calvin Yates: "It needs small shops not chains a couple of decent restaurants and some nice bars."

Britta Oliver: "A place to buy fresh, local and possibly organic produce would be lovely. Artisan bakery. Cafe with outside seating. Green space with playground. That's my wish list!"

Maria Morgan: "Try to keep the shops independent so the town is thriving with small local shops large chains kill the high street. So lower rents for traders and free car parking for up to 2/3 hours to stop all day parking." 

While other readers were split whether Northwich should be copying Warrington or Altrincham.

Lisa Woakes said: "As someone who works in retail in Northwich we need big name shops, the kind that bring in the shoppers and makes the town a destination shopping place, there's no reason we can't have the kind of shopping that Warrington has."

Jane Duckworth added: "Look at what they have done in Altrincham over the past couple of years, it's starting to thrive again. Partly I think down to the 'Market House', an indoor artisan food and drink hall. It's draws people from miles around including families, in a relaxed and social environment, great place!"

Click here for more details on how you can have your say or join the debate on our Facebook page here.