Residents, shoppers and visitors are invited to see plans for the future of Stafford town centre at a series of drop-in sessions starting next week.
The public can view the 'Development Framework' — the blueprint for transforming the town — and ask questions of councillors and officers. Four sessions will take place in the Guildhall Shopping Centre between 11am and 3pm, with dates in August and September following the first event next week.
What the framework includes
The Development Framework proposes a new market hall with artisan retail, a food court, entertainment space and business start-ups. Plans also include a variety of accommodation, pocket parks, enhanced public spaces, and an expansion to Newcastle and Stafford College Group. Historic landmarks will be incorporated into the design.
The vision follows demolition of the Guildhall Shopping Centre and the former Co-op department store, both purchased by Stafford Borough Council using government money. Demolition is currently taking place on the former Wilko's building, which has been earmarked for additional college premises.
Background to the plans
The groundwork undertaken by the council using government funding has sparked interest from potential developers. A report to the council's cabinet noted that shopping habits and leisure requirements are changing, and old-fashioned town centres across the country need to evolve.
A similar event attended by around 50 businesses and potential investors took place at St Mary's Church in July. Businessman Ed Bassett, who is considering investment in Stafford, said: "These are exciting times for Stafford with proposals that will transform the town centre. They now need to move on towards the development stage, working with partners to create a thriving community including residential, commercial and enhanced public spaces."
Borough Council leader Aidan Godfrey said: "This event gives us the opportunity to share with residents the vision for our town centre and take them on the next stage of this exciting journey. What we are looking at is a shift away from tired and vacant shopfronts in a high street that operates primarily in the daytime to a place that people are proud to live in and, equally importantly, want to spend their time in."
Money from the Future High Streets Fund has already been used to refurbish Market Square and enhance the approach and entrance to Stafford Railway Station.
