Indoor market plan to be examined for Oswestry regeneration project

The B-Wise and Regal buildings in Oswestry have been put forward as two potential locations for the new ‘business incubation space’, as well as the top floor of the Guildhall.

Consultancy firms are now being invited to tender for a £25,000 contract to look at the sites in more detail, recommend which should be chosen, and produce a business plan.

They will also be asked to evaluate whether any of the suggested buildings could house a relocated indoor market.

It comes after the town was awarded £653,000 last year under the High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme administered by Historic England.

A key element of Oswestry’s successful funding bid was an ambitious ‘flagship project’ to support and nurture existing and new local businesses in a dedicated space.

It is envisaged the hub will provide a range of business uses and support, as well fostering better connections between local enterprises, and could potentially offer flexible office and meeting spaces.

The tender document issued by Shropshire Council says the successful consultants will need to carry out a sector analysis to “understand what is out there and the need for such a space”, and engage with potential user groups.

It says: “We have identified three potential properties that may be suitable, if refurbished. These are the B-Wise, Regal and the top floor of the Guildhall.

“However, we are open to suggestions outside of the identified project area.

Suitability

“An options appraisal of these properties to understand their suitability as a business incubation space would be essential.

“This would include a consideration of the blend of other activities/businesses which could amplify the attractiveness of a business incubation space.

“Oswestry Town Council is considering the feasibility of moving its current indoor market to support the regeneration of the high street and increase the attractiveness of the market.

“Whilst this is dealt with in a separate brief you should consider the fundamental question of ‘can any of the proposed buildings house an indoor market?’.”

The document says some evidence could be gathered from the work currently being undertaken to produce an Oswestry Masterplan, but it says consultants should also carry out engagement with groups such as BID members, business support organisations and potential users of the new space.

It adds: “This would need to be mindful of the aspiration for this project to stimulate young enterprise.

“Therefore, engagement with start-ups, young enterprise clubs and college students would be valuable and as such consultants are required to describe their approach to consultation with key stakeholders.”

The business plan on the preferred building will enable Shropshire Council, Oswestry Town Council, Historic England and the BID to “establish the financial viability of the project” and “demonstrate the economic impact on Oswestry”, the document says.

Tenders from consultants “with specialisms in heritage regeneration and urban planning” are being accepted until April 12. The work will be carried out by the successful firm between May and August.