Congleton is undergoing a transformation. The Market Quarter Group has unveiled its vision for a thriving town centre that reconnects the community, supports local businesses, and embraces a sustainable future.

The next phase of this bold vision, Phase 02 of the Congleton Market Quarter Container Village, was introduced during an exclusive prelaunch event on Tuesday 24 September.

This development represents more than just new workspaces; it is a reinvention of how town centres can operate in the 21st century. At a time when many high streets are struggling, Congleton is showing how strategic, community-driven investment can breathe life into local economies.

Congleton Market Quarter Phase 02 pre-launch event (Image-supplied).

A Vision for Town Centre Transformation

The Market Quarter Group's mission is clear: to revitalise Congleton into a vibrant hub where people can live, work, and play. By blending modern business spaces with community values, the project aims to create a lasting legacy that builds on the town's history while preparing it for the future.

Phase 02 of the Container Village exemplifies this ambition. Featuring 12 retail and workspace units, the development offers flexible spaces equipped with amenities that cater to the needs of entrepreneurs, small businesses, and creative professionals.

The proposed plans (Image-supplied).

Each unit has been designed to be both functional and sustainable, creating an environment where local enterprises can thrive.

Congleton has experienced a remarkable 44 per cent increase in town centre footfall compared to pre-Covid levels, reflecting the growing vibrancy and appeal of the area. This surge in activity highlights the significant potential for the future of Congleton's town centre.

The strong demand for the new container units, coupled with an extensive waiting list, underscores the community's renewed enthusiasm for the town centre.

A Community-Led Approach

The Market Quarter Group is committed to fostering a vibrant and engaged community (Image-supplied).

Central to the success of the Market Quarter Group's projects is its commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaged community. Beyond offering business spaces, the group has made the Congleton Market Quarter a hub for events that bring people together and celebrate local life.

One such event was the recent family Halloween party, which was a resounding success. The festivities included a pumpkin carving competition, free face painting for children, and an array of top-quality food and drink for all to enjoy.

Events like this showcase how the Market Quarter is more than a business destination- it is a space where the community can connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories.

Reclaiming the Heart of Congleton

Market Quarter Group is redefining what a modern town centre can be (Image-supplied).

The Congleton Market Quarter project is rooted in a deep belief that town centres can be more than retail destinations. They can be places where people gather, innovate, and create shared experiences.

By integrating bars, eateries, artisan markets, offices, and outdoor spaces, the Market Quarter Group is redefining what a modern town centre can be.

Stakeholder Quotes

Nick Hynes, Partner at Market Quarter Group, commented: "We have seen first-hand with our inception project, the 'Congleton Market Quarter', how community-focused regeneration and development can directly impact the economic growth of the town centre which has allowed for our progression into Phase 02 of the project.

"We set out to do things differently, with a razor-sharp focus on creating something more impactful and sustainable than the development itself. This has instilled a renewed interest and purpose in the town centre. Within six months, we've seen the high street's footfall increase by 44 percent, and we're confident that occupation levels will follow."

The Market Quarter is a space where the community can connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories (Image-supplied).

Nick Hynes further emphasised sustainability and said: "Long-term project sustainability is at the heart of what we do, with an ambition to drive a collective goal in our community. It is an opportunity for people to take ownership of the spaces they love, honouring their history and heritage while engaging with them in a modern and relevant way.

"Market Quarter Group's commitment to climate-positive developments and local economic growth means that people and the planet are at the forefront of every stage in the development."

Ged Lynch, Partner at Market Quarter Group, added: "Our ongoing hospitality support and mentoring for the ambitious local independent businesses that take residence in a Market Quarter Group space mean we all have the best chance of success and growth. There's no 'set and forget' mentality here.

"We believe that we only succeed when our independent vendors succeed, and we're excited to see those in Phase 02 of Congleton's development flourish."

A Call to Action for Local Entrepreneurs

The Market Quarter Group is inviting local entrepreneurs and businesses to join this transformative project (Image-supplied).

With Phase 02 scheduled for an official launch in March 2025, the Market Quarter Group is inviting local entrepreneurs and businesses to join this transformative project. Meetings with potential tenants are already underway, and demand is high.

Businesses interested in securing a place in this innovative development are encouraged to act quickly, as spaces are limited.