Leisure operators wanted for Wigan Pier development
The developer behind the transformation of the Wigan Pier complex has begun a search for operators to populate the development.
Step Places, which is working in conjunction with Wigan Council on the project, is looking for leisure, culture, and entertainment operators for the 55,000 sq ft scheme.
The redevelopment of the pier, which was made famous in George Orwell’s The Road to Wigan Pier, has seen the creation of space for offices, retail and leisure operators, as well as community facilities.
Harinder Dhaliwal, director at Step Places, said: “We have invested significantly in the development of the Wigan Pier scheme. With Piers 2, 3 and 4, we are open to discussion with events operators, micro brewers/distillers, food beverage, hospitality operators and any end users who want to be located in these iconic buildings. We are committed to delivering the best possible facility for Wigan and the North West.
“We are delighted to see real interest in Wigan Pier from the culture, leisure and hospitality sector. We have had approaches from the creative, music and leisure scene.
“Our ambition from the start was to put this area back on the map as one of the premier cultural destinations in the North, and so this is an opportune time to go the market and see the full range of partnership options.”
Development at the site was delayed due to COVID-19, but work began again last year on Piers 2 and 3 to create a multi-function event space. Work on Piers 4 and 5 also recently started again, which will be used for temporary events.
James Winterbottom, director of strategy and innovation at Wigan Council, said: “We remain committed to delivering the Wigan Pier development, which will see this important and iconic part of our local heritage reimagined for future generations to enjoy.
“It’s positive news that Step Places are moving forward with the project, and we look forward to seeing so much of the hard work happening behind the scenes coming together.”