A SHOPPING centre’s new roof appears to be leaking already.

Shoppers at Winsford Cross were left stunned over the weekend after rainwater brought about by Storm Bert appeared to seep through onto the centre’s floor.

That is despite Cheshire West and Chester Council having spent £1 million to refurbish the infamously leaky roof.

With a few weeks left until work is finished, Cllr Nathan Pardoe remains confident the new roof will be watertight when complete.

The cabinet member for inclusive economy, regeneration and digital transformation said: "The work to replace the roof is not yet complete and temporary weatherproofing is still in place in some sections where the roof level changes.

“Permanent weatherproofing is being made to measure for these sections, and when the works are finished, Cheshire West and Chester Councill will deliver on its promise to make the roof watertight.”

Emma Ayers, who works at Huff and Puff Vapes inside Winsford Cross, says the business has been ‘pretty badly’ impacted by the refurbishment works.

She estimates their weekly taking has dropped by around 30 per cent since work began in August.

Emma added: “New roof, same problems!

“It’s like a lake and water is everywhere, it’s a death trap!

“What a pointless waste of money… all this disruption and what for?”

Cllr Pardoe provided an update on the project last week, with the replacement works now ‘more than halfway complete’.

Work will continue on the central atrium, the second long section towards B&M and additional sections of the flat roof areas.

Cllr Pardoe said: "The contractor remains on-site, and the works are due to complete by the end of 2024, weather permitting.

“Visitors and businesses have already recognised the improved appearance with the work so far and it’s clear that the finished job is going to be a big improvement.

“These works are an important part of the council’s ongoing regeneration of Winsford town centre, and part of the biggest investment in the town centre since the 1960s."