THE former project manager of Middlewich Vision has reassured residents that the town's regeneration scheme is still 'alive and kicking'.

Stephen Dent, who now works for Middlewich Town Council as deputy town clerk, has told people not to worry after the Guardian revealed that Northwich Vision plans have come to nothing.

Mr Dent said: "We have the same steering group and the same project is in existence.

"Middlewich Town Council is the leading body behind Middlewich Vision and we are still here going strong."

Mr Dent admitted that Middlewich Vision had 'slowed down' in recent months as the group lost its project coordinator Caroline O'Brien about a year ago.

But Julia Brumby, of Cheshire East's community safety partnership, will take the lead on Middlewich Vision.

"It will carry on with a bang in November," said Mr Dent.

"Middlewich Vision is very much alive and kicking."

A Cheshire East spokesman added: "Middlewich is one of our key market towns within Cheshire East and we remain supportive of the aims and objectives of Middlewich Vision."

Mr Dent hailed the £300,000 project to upgrade 2.2km of towpath along the Trent and Mersey Canal between Croxton Trail and the junction of the Wardle Canal in the town centre as Middlewich Vision's finest hour.

Current projects include plans to transform a derelict warehouse and cottage into a canalside cafe, visitor centre and council premises with a heritage display and boating facilities at the Town Wharf.

It is also hoped that a lorry park can be built in Brooks Lane to prevent lorry drivers from parking illegally in Middlewich overnight