Further ground investigations to begin at Weaver Square in Northwich

Ground investigations are due to start at Weaver Square in Northwich during the week of 1st September ahead of Cheshire West and Chester Council’s regeneration of the area.

Initial investigations took place in 2023, and these investigations will build on those findings to inform decisions about how the site will be redeveloped.

Northwich is a town with a proud salt mining heritage, which means that these site investigations are vital to learn more about the current ground conditions before any potential future building works can begin.

Buildings at Weaver Square are currently lightweight and low. There is a need to understand more about how much weight the ground will be able to sustain to inform what type of development can take place at the site. Ground conditions will influence the design of any future development, for example in the height and density of buildings.

Ground investigations will be phased across three zones to minimise disruption to residents, businesses, and visitors to the town. The works will involve boreholes being drilled into the ground at several positions across the site. The area surrounding each borehole position will be fenced off to ensure safety, but the town centre and the car parks will remain operational.

The working hours for drilling will be restricted to 8am - 5pm on weekdays, with no weekend working.

Investigations are expected to take around seven weeks to complete. Findings will then be reviewed ahead of plans being developed for the Weaver Square’s regeneration.

The Council wants to create a new flagship residential community of over 100 homes in Northwich. This will replace empty shops and buildings built mostly in the 1960s which are no longer fit for purpose. In their place, will be modern, affordable and sustainable town centre homes, with public spaces and supporting infrastructure.

In July, Cabinet confirmed VINCI UK Developments Ltd and ION Property Developments Ltd as the preferred development partner who will work with the Council and the community to co-produce a masterplan, putting the aspirations of local people at the centre of the new development.

For more information on Weaver Square, visit the Council website:

Weaver Square | Cheshire West and Chester Council