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Traders at Thornton Square have welcomed the landlord’s plans for a £500,000-plus revamp of the mixed site off Congleton Road.

The scheme – which is still at the consultation stage – includes a 64-space car park, landscaping and eight new family starter homes opposite Ivy Bank Primary.

The 2,614 sq ft Thornton Square Shopping Centre and car park has been owned by Rosemanor Estates Ltd of Manchester since 2003. 

There are currently nine shops, including a local supermarket, and a cafe, plus homes.

A spokesman for the firm said it was hoped plans could be submitted to the council soon after positive feedback from a consultation meeting with traders.

Shereen Charlesworth, who owns True Beauty And Holistics and also lives at Thornton Square, said: “It think it’s going to be good for my home life and business life.

“Our landlord has been fantastic, when something needs doing he does it very quickly.

“I think the plans for affordable homes will help families and the car park will just have one entrance instead of the current two, which will be good for Ivy Bank School.”

Andrea Martin, who has just opened Hair On The Square, added: “I’m new on the square – so this investment has to be good news.

“With improvements to the area, I’m optimistic this will attract more trade.”

Jason Bracegirdle, who has just rented unit to open Mardales Home Improvement Centre, said: “If the regeneration makes the square a better place then it’s a good thing.”

If work starts in the spring the first families could be moving into their new homes in time for Christmas 2012.

Louise Dowd, managing director of Dowd Town Planning of Macclesfield, who organised the public consultation, said: “It’s important to listen to views of local shopkeepers and residents and we welcome all comments.”