Up to 120 local tradespeople and 20 professional services companies are expected to be offered work opportunities through a multi-million-pound project to redevelop a landmark historic building.
Developers have been selected to transform the Grade II Listed former Tunstall Library, baths and snooker hall building.
The aim is to bring the iconic Victorian building back to life with town centre apartments, a fitness space – which could include a swimming pool – and on-site parking. Potential commercial uses for part of the property are also being investigated, which could incude a café or community-led initiative.
Tunstall Library Development Ltd, headed up by Staffordshire-based Croft Architecture Ltd and local businessman Stanley Yu, has been picked as preferred developer for the site and will be appointed subject to formal contract agreements with Stoke-on-Trent City Council,
The next stage is for the plans to be drawn up in more detail, including consultation with the community, to be submitted for planning approval later this year.
During the construction phase, the developers are expected to use the services of over 120 local tradespeople and 20 local professional services companies for the design and development. These employment opportunities include apprenticeships and training for young people.
Carl Croft, Director of Croft Architecture Ltd, said: “We’re very much looking forward to conserving the historic buildings on this site and bringing this area of Tunstall back into productive use, in order to contribute to this town becoming a thriving local centre once again.
“We want to create high quality homes here, as well as spaces that can be enjoyed by the community of Stoke-on-Trent. This may include a conference space for business or other meetings, and a leisure facility with a swimming pool.
“It is an honour and a privilege that we have been selected, and we very much look forward to bringing these aspirations to life.”
A total investment of around £8 million is needed to complete the project. This includes a £3.35 million injection from the Levelling Up fund that was awarded to the city council in 2021 to enable heritage-led regeneration.
