ECF and St Helen’s Council’s transformation of Earlestown town centre is moving forward, with contractor the Eric Wright Group beginning preparatory works on site ahead of full construction activity later this year.
The landmark regeneration is being brought forward by St Helens Borough Council and ECF – a partnership of Homes England, L&G and Muse – and supported by £20m from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, alongside £8m match funding from the council.
The improvements will see Earlestown’s historic Market Square enhanced into a high-quality, flexible public space designed to support the town for generations to come. A new permanent canopy, inspired by the nine arches of the Sankey Viaduct, will provide sheltered trading areas while also creating a venue that can host a wide variety of public events year-round.
The project is part 20-year regeneration plan being delivered by ECF in partnership with St Helens Borough Council, creating successful and sustainable town centres in Earlestown and St Helens.
Eric Wright are carrying out surveys and trial holes – small excavations further assessing ground conditions before building work begins – and will also remove some street furniture and trees and preparing the Market Chambers building to be used as site accommodation facilities during the construction period. These activities will pave the way for the main construction works.
Eric Wright has appointed a dedicated Public Liaison Officer who will be on site and work closely with market traders, businesses and local residents to ensure regular and clear communication throughout the project.
Elsewhere as part of the project, HH Smith & Sons is already on site at the Grade II listed Earlestown Town Hall, as the main contractor for the extension and complete internal refurbishment of the much-loved historic landmark site, with works scheduled to be complete by Summer 2026
Cllr Richard McCauley, Cabinet Member for Regeneration at St Helens Borough Council, said:”Seeing Eric Wright on site this summer is a huge milestone for Earlestown. The preparatory works mark the beginning of visible progress that will lead to a transformed Market Square, ensuring we have the right foundations in place to deliver this ambitious project smoothly and effectively.”
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