Looking Forward to 2025
2024 was such a transformative year for the projects and strands that are part of the Reconnecting Runcorn programme, where ground was broken and community hubs were opened. 2025 is set to bring even more of this to Runcorn as the town’s transformation is well underway. This year is going to see Runcorn go from strength to strength. Let’s take a look at what we can expect to see as the year goes on:
The Brindley Enhancement
Work began on site last year and it is continuing to progress really well. This year we will see the steel works start on site in the spring. If you want to get the best view of what is happening on site while you walk past, take a stroll along the curly bridge or you can view the progress every month by following along via the monthly timelapse. The project is set to be completed by 2026.
Creative and Digital Skills Centre
We are starting off the year with the steels up on site as construction continues to happen on schedule which will hopefully see the building complete by the end of 2025. But not only is it an exciting time with the construction progress, February see’s two of Power in Partnership’s young people begin apprenticeships on site at 57-59 High Street and two at the Brindley project with the construction teams as they gain their qualifications. This demonstrates the true meaning of Reconnecting Runcorn and the collaboration and community these projects are building for the town.
This year will see Hazlehurst Studios’ moving into their third year at 71 High Street, where they plan to continue increasing the number of workshops, exhibitions and open days for the community as well as a high quality space for artists and creatives in Runcorn. Follow them so you don’t miss out on their events coming up for 2025.
63-65 High Street plans and designs are being further developed, ensuring the future training and learning centre stays on track amid economic challenges.
Health and Education Hub
After 2024 laid the groundwork for this vital new facility in Runcorn, work is set to start on site in the spring with the aim of handing over the facility at the end of the year to the NHS ahead of opening to the public. It is hoped the facility will be ‘somewhere you want to spend time, not somewhere you have to spend time.’ Before work begins onsite the current library will move to their temporary home on 6 Church Street, while they wait for their new home to be finished in the Brindley extension in 2026.
The Buddhist Temple
Last year we saw the completion of the Community Peace Garden, home to the spectacular bronzed chedi statue. It will be joined later this year by the only purpose built Ubosot Hall in the north of England, with spades expected in the ground in the Spring.
Street Art Celebrating Runcorn
April will see the two commissioned artists Aylo Nomad and Liam Bononi, create four incredible murals celebrating Runcorn’s history and culture, telling stories from the Dukesfield area. They will create their masterpieces over two weeks in April bringing vibrant new life to the viaduct pillars.
New Homes for the Town Centre
Construction is well underway on 66 new apartments on the High Street New Homes in partnership with Halton Housing Trust, with completion expected for Spring 2026. The steel framework is nearing completion. At the end of January, we saw Halton Housing announce the new name for the development ‘Mercia Place’, named after the Aethelflaed of Mercia who founded Runcorn in 915 AD as a fortification to protect against Viking invasions at the narrowing of the River Mersey.
Unlock Runcorn: Canal Experience
Planning permission was achieved in 2024 for phase one of the canal restoration, with work on site programmed to start in 2025. Runcorn Locks Restoration Society (RLRS), are getting ready to submit a planning application for their new café adjacent to Waterloo Bridge.
Runcorn Station Quarter- Elite House
Designers are currently developing conceptual drawings for Elite House, enterprise hub which will further evolve as the year progresses.
Exciting 12 months ahead
2025 is already looking like an exciting year for Runcorn, as these projects continue full steam ahead, transforming the area as they develop. From the continued development of community spaces to unveiling new public art, Runcorn’s transformation is well underway, bringing fresh energy and opportunities to the town.
From left to right, are: Paul Mullane, Director of Development and Sales at Halton Housing, Wesley Rourke, Executive Director Environment and Regeneration at Halton Borough Council, Jochem Hollestelle, Principal Regeneration Officer, Halton Borough Council, Neil McGrath. Deputy Group Chief Executive & Chief Financial Officer at Halton Housing, Mark Blain, Legacie Contracts Ltd and Ria Griffiths, Development Project Manager at Halton Housing.
Youthy.com Apprentices- Matty, Apprentice on site at Youthy.com, Chris Haunch, Warden Site Manager, Danny, Apprentice on site at Youthy.com
