A major regeneration scheme set to transform Stafford town centre has taken a step forward after Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet confirmed its commitment to the ambitious Eastgate redevelopment.
The project will repurpose surplus county council buildings and land in a bid to attract new residents, businesses and visitors. It’s hoped the scheme could attract around £30 million of private investment.
The plans, led by the county council in partnership with regeneration specialists ION, focus on buildings in Tipping Street and Martin Street, as well as land formerly occupied by the town’s magistrates court. Early surveys and investigations are now largely complete, and outline proposals feature a mixed-use scheme bringing together residential, commercial and leisure space.
There are also plans to enhance public realm and green spaces at St Chad’s Place and off South Walls, creating a welcoming route that links the River Sow with the market square and high street.
Recent work has seen detailed surveys of the former county council offices on Martin Street and Tipping Street to assess their potential for future use and redevelopment.
The Eastgate project will complement Stafford Borough Council’s high street work, including the redevelopment of the former Guildhall shopping centre and Co-op store, and follows recent improvements to the Market Square.
Martin Murray, Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills, said: “We know there is huge potential for Stafford town centre to become a leading location for urban living, leisure and commercial development, capitalising on its connectivity.
“We are committed to make Stafford a county town to be proud of, enhancing its historical assets and creating attractive spaces for visitors and residents.
“Working with Stafford Borough Council we can continue to build on recent successes such as the Market Square, Victoria Park and Shire Hall, in making the town a thriving place in the daytime and evening. These are exciting proposals and together with ION we can deliver a first-class scheme.”
ION has more than 30 years of experience working with local authorities on regeneration projects across the UK, including in Liverpool, Wirral, Sefton, Wolverhampton and Denbighshire.
Managing director Steve Parry said: “We believe places are all about people and people need to experience exciting locations with a choice of high-quality homes, access to jobs, a high-quality public realm and good transport links.
“There is a huge opportunity within the Eastgate project to engage with the local community and stakeholders to create a destination area that will enhance the town’s desirability and boost its long-term social and economic prosperity, including its visitor economy.”
