Around 50 local business people attended a drop-in event at St Mary's Church in Stafford on Wednesday 22 July to learn about the borough council's town centre transformation plans.
Stafford Borough Council released a Development Framework that outlines proposals for the town centre. The blueprint includes a new market hall with artisan retail, a food court, entertainment venues, and business start-ups. The plans also feature a variety of accommodation, pocket parks, enhanced public spaces, and proposed expansion to the college, while incorporating historic landmarks into the design.
Groundwork Already Underway
The borough council used government funding to purchase the ailing Guildhall Shopping Centre and the derelict former Co-op department store, both of which have been demolished. Demolition is currently taking place on the former Wilko's building, which has been earmarked for Newcastle and Stafford College Group.
Money from the Future High Streets Fund has already paid for refurbishment of the Market Square and improvements to the approach and entrance to Stafford Railway Station.
Business and Council Response
Local businessman Ed Bassett, who is considering potential investment in the county town, said the proposals represent "exciting times for Stafford" and called for the council to move forward to the development stage.
Borough Council leader Aidan Godfrey said the event allowed the council to share the vision with local businesses and retail and hospitality outlets. "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," he said.
Public Consultation to Follow
A series of public drop-in sessions will take place in the town during August and September, giving residents, shoppers, and visitors the chance to find out more about the plans. Deputy leader Councillor Rob Kenney said the council was pleased to have feedback from the business community and was looking forward to hearing views from residents.