As previously reported by the Warrington Guardian, the owners of CPS Centre in Culcheth handed tenants formal notices terminating their licences, effective from February 28.
Charlotte Nichols, whose constituency includes Culcheth, addressed the eviction this afternoon, Wednesday, and asked the Prime Minister what steps would be taken to ensure independent businesses are protected.
“Long standing traders in the CPS Centre in Culcheth were devastated to receive an eviction notice giving them just 28 days to vacate entirely out of the blue and on a spurious pretext by the new owner, Shell company Shivat Haminim Capital,” she said.
“So far, the owner and legal representatives have failed to hear tenants’ concerns and mine, and to negotiate a way forward.
“So, does the Prime Minister share my concerns at this situation and will he set out our plans to protect independent businesses which are at the heart of our high street and communities?”
As part of his response, the Prime Minister addressed that fact that the centre is due to undergo work to improve fire safety in the building.
Sir Keir Starmer also ensured that Ms Nichols would get the opportunity to discuss the businesses moving forward.
“Well, I thank her for raising this which is obvious a real concern to business in her constituency,” he said.
“We do, Mr Speaker, expect landlords to meet their obligations to make buildings safe and we support robust enforcement action from the regulator if they fail to do so.
“I will make sure that she gets a meeting with the minister to discuss what steps can be taken in her particular case to support the business that her constituents rely on.”
In a letter sent to tenants, the owners of the CPS Centre stated that the centre will close on March 1 to facilitate fire safety upgrades.
The letter to tenants read: “One critical area that remains unresolved is the health and safety standards of the building, which we are legally and morally obliged to address.
“When we took ownership, no fire risk assessment or electrical safety certification was provided by the previous owners.
“As required under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, we commissioned these assessments to evaluate the condition of the premises and unfortunately, the findings were far more concerning than anticipated.
“The electrical installation has been deemed unsatisfactory and hazardous, requiring a complete replacement.
“The fire alarm system has been classified as inadequate, and the building’s compartmentation does not meet the necessary standards to prevent the rapid spread of fire.
“These issues pose a significant risk to the safety of all occupants.
“In December 2024, an additional inspection by Cheshire Fire Authority further highlighted the urgency of these concerns.
“The report emphasized that these critical works must be undertaken within weeks to eliminate life-threatening hazards.
“Given the extent and complexity of the necessary repairs, with huge costs currently unknown, it is neither safe nor feasible to carry out these works while the centre remains operational.
“In order for us to meet the current requirements and with the safety of tenants, employees and visitors our highest priority, we regret to inform you the CPS Centre will officially close on March 1, 2025, to facilitate these essential upgrades.”
The work is expected to be ongoing for a number of months, with the letter adding: “We understand the news is distressing and comes at a challenging time.
“Please know that the decision was not made lightly. We have explored all possible alternatives, but ultimately, the safety and well-being of everyone using the centre must come first.”
