The contract for the work was put out to tender in June. Pave Aways, which is based at Knockin, near Oswestry, has been chosen following an evaluation of the bids submitted.

The Whitchurch Civic Centre redevelopment plans include improvements to the façade and landscaping at the front of the building, internal alterations to create a more welcoming foyer, and a significant upgrade of the heating, water, and electrical systems. This new foyer area will accommodate Shropshire Council’s Information Point, Whitchurch Town Council’s reception and the Tourist Information Point, offering a ‘one-stop shop’ to access information in Whitchurch.

The designs were agreed following detailed public consultations, which saw the draft designs displayed at the Civic Centre, at a public meeting attended by more than 60 people, and following a series of meetings with key stakeholders, including market traders, regular visitors to the centre, and landscape experts.

The £724,000 project is being funded by Shropshire Council, including funding from the council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme; Whitchurch Town Council; and from the Sainsbury’s Unilateral Undertaking funding for public realm improvements.

As part of the work, an electricity sub-station currently located within the basement of the building will be moved to a new location, and this will require some limited closures to the High Street. More information will be provided when it is available, and everything possible will be done to minimise any disruption and inconvenience.

The library will be open as usual during the work, with access from St Mary’s Street throughout this time.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for business growth, and commissioning north, said:

“We are pleased to announce Pave Aways as the chosen contractor, and it is great that a Shropshire firm has emerged as the standout choice against strong competition.

“Work will soon begin on this project to upgrade and enhance the centre, which in turn aims to revitalise the town. These developments are taking place to increase visitors to both the centre and the high street, by improving the area outside the building and making the building a more attractive place to hold functions, clubs and events. We look forward to seeing this work progress.”

Steve Flavell, Senior Contracts Manager, Pave Aways Limited, said:

“Pave Aways are excited to have been appointed as the main contractor for this prestigious project in the centre of Whitchurch, and we once again look forward to working with Shropshire Council and delivering another successful project everyone involved can be proud of.”