As part of its ongoing commitment to raising the profile of the borough, St Helens Council has appointed Gary Maddock as its Town Centre Manager, tasked with supporting the town centre – and sustaining its role as the vibrant, commercial heartbeat of the borough.
The council had been due to make an appointment in the summer, but the process was delayed following the withdrawal of a candidate –providing an opportunity to re-specify the role.
Nevertheless, the announcement comes at a time just as new life is being breathed into the town centre, with the arrival of national retailers like H&M, Fat Face and USC recently setting up shop. While over on the once derelict Linkway West site, Bella Italia, Costa Coffee and a bowling alley are expected to join Aldi in the New Year.
Previously a member of the council’s events team, where he helped deliver the council’s key events programmes including the annual Christmas lights switch on and Summer Streets events Gary has also worked with key event organisers throughout the borough including the successful Westfield Street Music Festival and the Steve Prescott Foundation’s St Helens 10K.
Gary said: “Having worked in St Helens for several years, I’ve developed a real passion for the area and have a strong working knowledge of the town centre and borough, including its opportunities and challenges.
“I am excited to be taking on this new role and looking forward to continuing to working closely with local businesses, visitor attractions and partners to bring improvements to our town. I believe it is a fantastic town with a great community with lots to offer and getting everyone working together we can make a real difference.”
His previous role also included working with town centre businesses and visitor attractions and he will continue to work with these key partners to develop and promote St Helens as a great place to live, work and visit.
Church Square Shopping Centre manager Steven Brogan said: “I would like to congratulate Gary on his new role. He is an excellent ambassador for St Helens and I know that he will work hard to promote all that is good about the town, and help to attract more businesses.”
Welcoming the news, St Helens Council Leader, Barrie Grunewald, added: “This is a great appointment for us as we drive the regeneration of the town centre and work with the town’s businesses and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive, co-ordinated plan of activity to develop and promote the town centre and increase footfall and spend.”
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