Demolition begins at former Wilko site as Stafford town centre transformation gathers pace.
Work is now underway at the former Wilko site in Stafford town centre after planning permission was granted for the demolition of the former Wilko store, Shopmobility building and public toilets.
The demolition forms part of Stafford Borough Council’s wider regeneration programme, which aims to prepare the area for future redevelopment. The council says the work is another key milestone in the biggest transformation of Stafford town centre in a generation, with plans for new commercial, education, leisure and public spaces.
Planning permission approved
At a meeting of Stafford Borough Council’s Planning Committee on Wednesday 8 July, councillors approved plans to demolish the former Wilko building, along with the neighbouring Shopmobility building and public conveniences.
Following the decision, contractors have begun preparing the site, with safety fencing now in place around part of the area. This has reduced the number of available parking spaces while demolition work is prepared.
The former Wilko building was purchased by Stafford Borough Council as part of its regeneration programme, using Government funding secured through the Future High Streets Fund.
Public toilets to remain open for as long as possible
One of the main concerns raised by residents has been the future of the town centre public toilets.
During the planning committee meeting, councillors were told the toilets would remain open for as long as it is physically possible before demolition begins.
It was explained that Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG), which has expressed an interest in part of the site as part of its planned town centre expansion, has been able to provide some flexibility over when the toilets will need to close.
This means the public conveniences are expected to be the final buildings demolished on the site.
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Work already underway
Visitors to Stafford town centre may have already noticed contractors on site and new security fencing surrounding part of the former Wilko site.
Because contractors have now taken control of the area, around half of the car parking spaces have temporarily been taken out of use while demolition preparations continue.
Part of a much bigger regeneration project
The demolition is one element of Stafford Borough Council’s wider regeneration plans for the town centre.
Earlier this year, councillors approved a development framework that includes proposals for new public spaces, a food hall, smaller retail units, homes, leisure facilities and additional education space linked to Stafford College. The former Wilko site forms an important part of those long-term ambitions.
The council has said preparing sites for redevelopment is helping to attract interest from developers and investors as it looks to reshape Stafford town centre for the future.
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