THE chief executive of Warrington Borough Council has welcomed plans to temporarily transform the former Mr Smith's site into a winter wonderland over the festive period.

Work is already under way to pave the way for the fairground that will be operating over Christmas and New Year.

Professor Steven Broomhead said the plans were 'great news' for the town with the fairground set to open in the coming weeks.

He said: “Plans to help boost the local economy by transforming the former Mr Smith’s site into a 'winter wonderland’ are very much welcomed by the council.

“This project is great news for visitors to Bridge Street and the town centre this Christmas and New Year and an ideal opportunity for Christmas shoppers and their families who also want to enjoy some festive family fun.

“This is a commercial project that should add to the great festive experience in the town.”

It is understood the firm Silcock’s will be setting up shop on the land.

The site of the former Ritz and ABC cinema has remained empty since it was demolished after a blaze destroyed the iconic building in the town centre.

Uncertainty continues to hang over the fate of the site with speculation mounting about what the future holds.

Plans were already moving forward to transform the site into a youth zone prior to the fire in April.

But these plans were halted in the wake of the blaze at the art deco building.

More to follow.