A major £600,000 refurbishment of a Newcastle-under-Lyme council depot used by waste, recycling and Streetscene teams is being lined up to improve safety and working conditions for around 150 staff.
The Knutton Lane depot is due to undergo a two-phase programme if plans are approved by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s cabinet next week.
Work is due to begin in October, with the first phase focused on improving safety and security across the site.
It will include extensive new line marking, additional barriers to separate pedestrians from moving vehicles and plant machinery, upgraded and replacement lighting, and improvements to CCTV and site security.
The second phase, expected to begin in spring 2027, will include the refurbishment of staff toilets, showers and canteen facilities, and improvements to office areas.
Planning permission has already been secured for the refurbishment, and the investment has been included in the council’s capital programme across the 2026/27 and 2027/28 financial years.
Councillor Ben Simpson, cabinet member for waste, recycling and green spaces, said: “Our waste, recycling and Streetscene teams are out every day delivering some of the council services residents rely on most, and it is right that we invest in the facilities they need to do those jobs safely and effectively.
“Knutton Lane has served the borough for decades, but parts of the site now clearly need investment. Our approach as an administration is to focus taxpayers’ money on practical improvements that support frontline services, protect our workforce and ensure important council assets remain fit for purpose.
“This investment will help ensure Knutton Lane remains a safe, effective and resilient operational base for the vital services our residents depend upon.”
