A study, looking into possible future development of the Priory Quarter of St Neots has been commissioned by Huntingdonshire District Council and St Neots Town Council.
The study will build upon a survey of residents already conducted by the Civic Trust, which identified the Priory Quarter as a hub of activity and an area of special potential for the future, and highlighted a wish among residents for attractions such as a cinema, theatre or concert hall, improved shopping, restaurants and food outlets as well as improvements to swimming pools and skating parks. Central to the study would be the future role of the Priory Centre – a focal point of the area, which offers a huge range of events and facilities from conferences through to civil marriages and civil partnership ceremonies, and a programme of entertainment that covers local talent as well as internationally known performers.
Consultants CB Richard Ellis has been asked to talk with cinema operators in order to identify the scope for a commercial operator to operate from the site. An objective of any project would be to maintain and enhance the visual and amenity aspects of the Priory Quarter and also provide for other attractions identified by the survey and by St Neots Town Council.
Councillor Andrew Hansard, whose executive councillor responsibilities include economic development said: “The district council is keen to react to the wishes of St Neots residents and see if we can bring in new attractions to the town. There are many practical issues to be addressed before we can do this and commissioning this study is helping us to embark on the process of addressing these”.
The Mayor of St Neots, Councillor Paul Ursell said: "The commissioning of the redevelopment of the Priory Quarter study is very much welcomed as the first important step in producing a scheme which meets the needs of the town. It is an opportunity to breathe new life and vibrancy into this important town centre location which will encourage new businesses and visitors to St Neots "
The study is being jointly funded by St Neots Town Council with whom the district council will be working throughout this process.