Structural demolition has officially begun at the Wolverton Agora, making way for developers to soon begin construction of the award-winning Love Wolverton scheme.
This morning, a community event was held to mark the end of the era. Those working on the project from Milton Keynes Council joined ward councillors, the Mayor of Wolverton, development managers TOWN and other stakeholders to view the site.
Demolition contractor Goody have been making progress in demolishing the vacant shopping centre and are expected to finish in October. Meanwhile the Council is in the process of tendering a construction company to deliver the scheme, with an appointment expected early 2023 and works starting on site by the Spring.
Milton Keynes Council, TOWN and the future construction company will work in partnership to deliver the multi-million-pound regeneration of Wolverton’s town centre and progress the Love Wolverton scheme, which will see new homes, shops, streets, and community facilities built.
Once construction is complete, there will be:
86 new homes, with 31% being affordable housing
The city’s first co-housing scheme which combines private and social housing for over 50s
Eight new shops for local businesses
Car-free ‘little streets’ and a pocket park for residents and visitors to use
A sustainable mobility hub, which includes an electric car club and bike hire facility
An energy microgrid that generates two-thirds of the annual energy needs of the development on-site
Other improvements to the Town Centre will include a new town centre car park at St George’s Way to replace the former Agora car park, alongside public realm improvements and a public toilet.
Wolverton Ward Councillor Rob Middleton, who is also Cabinet Member for Resources, has been leading on the project:
“I’m thrilled that we’re making great progress with the regeneration of Wolverton, as this project has been nearly a decade in the making. Demolition is nearly complete and soon we will see our partners begin to bring the highly acclaimed Love Wolverton scheme to life.
“Building high-quality, affordable housing is a key pillar of Plan:MK and that’s why we’ve committed to ensuring a third of new homes are classed as affordable. The regenerated town centre will also become home to more independent businesses, which will in turn boost the local economy. It’s an exciting time for residents and businesses in Wolverton. The town is a historic hub with endless potential, and the Love Wolverton scheme will ensure it will be enjoyed by generations to come.”