Developers give update on long-delayed 'Foundry' box park in St Helens

In October 2021, St Helens Council announced that it was looking for a 'box park' contractor and it agreed to a £1 million deal with Steel Life Group Ltd in February 2022, to create the type of multi-use attraction that has proved popular in neighbouring cities and towns.

The attraction, which is set to be called The Foundry, looks to transform the former Chalon Way car park into an outdoor leisure space with 51 shipping containers, eating and drinking areas, a retail hub, and an outdoor cinema.

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A CGI of the proposed box park (Image: Steel Life)
Planning permission was granted for the project last July, with initial proposals claiming that the box park would be completed by summer and then autumn of 2022.

However, residents have grown frustrated as there have been no signs of the long-delayed project, two years after it was first proposed.

Developers say that delays have been caused by the "cost of living crisis and structural issues", but have told the Star that groundworks will soon begin.

The developers say that containers are "expected to be delivered to site in October", with a completion date not long afterward.

Developers say that containers will be on site in October (Image: Steel Life Ltd)
Chris Lewis, Property Director at Steel Life, said: ‘‘We know people are really excited to see the development take shape and we’re very sorry that the economic climate and issues on site have delayed works.

"We’re looking forward to seeing The Foundry really coming to life. There has been great interest from local vendors wishing to rent a container and we will be in touch with all those that have expressed an interest in the coming days by email.

"With the involvement of these businesses we will deliver a vibrant and active zone to complement St Helens town centre.”

The developers say that local businesses, bars, food outlets, events teams and creatives will be contacted about next steps in the coming days, with enquiries still being received for tenancies on containers.