North Westgate development is finally '˜in view'

The upbeat verdict on the derelict 10 acre site, which has been waiting for development for 30 years, comes from a key landowner.

Peter Breach, chairman of Hawksworth Securities, which owns up to 75 per cent of the area earmarked for building works, says a new council-led design workshop of landowners could pave the way for the start of building work.

The workshop was unveiled by Peterborough City Council leader Councillor John Holdich at a black tie dinner for business and civic leaders held in Peterborough Cathedral.

He announced that Peterborough companies LDA Design and Barker Storey Matthews had offered their expertise to the council to help develop the masterplan for North Westgate.

He said: “The next stage of the process will be a council-led design workshop in November, at which all major landowners will be invited to build on these proposals.

“Together we can reach an agreement on the site’s key components, and a programme for implementation, ensuring commercial viability.”

Mr Breach, who has just submitted a third planning application for a £100 million regeneration of North Westgate, said: “I have been invited, and I will be attending the workshop.

“I welcome this initiative.

“I think that Cllr Holdich seems to be getting a real grip on this issue.

He said: “It brings the development of North Westgate into view.”

He added: “It is possible for the council to piggyback our planning application.”