A NEW vision to transform Ellesmere Port’s waterfront and promote the area as a destination was unveiled last night.

Plans include improvements to the historic Docks Conservation Area, aimed at making the area into a more popular and vibrant destination, along with a scheme backed by property giant Peel to develop the docklands area to the north.

Known as Ellesmere Quays, Peel’s plan would include a mix of homes, leisure, and tourism-related developments, and a promenade alongside the Manchester Ship Canal.

The aim is that these will all benefit from spectacular views across the Ship Canal and the Mersey Estuary. The first phases are proposed next to Lower Mersey Street.

The conservation area, at the heart of which is the National Waterways Museum, and its historic buildings and docks are also seen to be an underused and “often under appreciated asset” and the council hopes by bringing new development to the area it will bring many wider benefits for the town.

Peel Land and Property, The Waterways Trust and Cheshire West and Chester Council are working with the Ellesmere Port Development Board, to help to transform the town’s waterfront beyond Peel’s own plans.