27th October 2025

Business owners W. Abbasi and E. Abbassi, proprietors of The Entertainment Centre at 10–16 Great King Street in Macclesfield, have raised serious concerns regarding the ongoing redevelopment of the Churchill Way car park site, earmarked for a new cinema, restaurants, and other commercial outlets by Cheshire East Council (CEC) and developer ASK Real Estate.

The Abbasis claim that their building, originally considered part of the main development site, was later excluded from plans at a stroke, leaving them facing a brutal forced relocation and the shutdown of their long-standing café. Despite extensive negotiations and compliance with the council’s demands, they allege that they were left in limbo, unable to restart their business, while other businesses on the site reportedly recovered more quickly.

The owners contend that the council and developer’s actions amounted to institutional discrimination, singling them out as first-generation minority entrepreneurs. They report that recent plans suggest the construction of an “enclave-style” wall around their building—effectively segregating it from the rest of the development. They describe this move as punitive, stating that it seems designed to send a message for raising concerns publicly.

In response, the Abbasis have submitted a series of formal requests to Cheshire East Council, seeking:

  • Copies of draft and final site plans, meeting minutes, and emails regarding the Macclesfield Town Centre Vision Stakeholder Panel.
  • Clarification on the proposed wall, including height, construction materials, and access rights.
  • Details of public funds spent on the project, consultant fees, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Information on waste disposal plans for the new development, particularly concerning their building.
  • Evidence of engagement with their business as direct stakeholders, including invitations, meeting minutes, or other correspondence.

The couple allege that the council and developer have systematically ignored them over the past five years, while consulting widely with other stakeholders. They emphasize that their requests are rooted in a desire for transparency, accountability, and fair treatment, highlighting that no formal response or credible explanation has been provided to date.

The Abbasis’ case raises broader questions about inclusivity in local development projects, minority representation in planning consultations, and accountability in the use of public funds. As Macclesfield anticipates significant commercial transformation, this dispute underscores the human impact behind urban redevelopment—particularly for longstanding local businesses that find themselves excluded or marginalized.