Preferred contractor Vinci is now expected to sign a pre-construction services agreement on the council-funded scheme in the Autumn for the £60m first phase with a view to work starting in early 2020.

This will include a modern market, six-screen cinema, restaurants, a public square and car parking.

The Chester Northgate Scheme aims to deliver around 400,000 sq ft of new retail, restaurant and leisure facilities, planned to be delivered over two phases of construction.

Hunters walk arcade

Vinci will now work with architect AHR and civil engineering consultant Curtains to refine designs.

Councillor Brian Clarke, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Infrastructure said: “The Northgate scheme has been a long time coming but we are clearer than ever on what we want to see in this part of the city.

“The fact this multi-million pound project is being led by the Council is proof that we are serious about investing in the future of the city, building on the phenomenal success of Storyhouse.

“Having made this decision to press on with the next phase we look forward to welcoming other new occupiers joining the exciting current line-up of Picturehouse, Zizzi, Cosy Club and Tapas Revolution.”

During this year Vinci will complete feasibility studies, continue tenant negotiations, submit plans for approval and begin construction enabling works.

The Council and design team will be consulting stakeholders and the local community on the updated and revised proposals in the spring with a number of local events.

Market Square – looking towards the market and the cinema above.