Demolition begins at former Wilko store in Stafford

Demolition work has now started at the former Wilko store in Stafford town centre.

Stafford Borough Council bought the building as part of its wider town centre regeneration programme, with the site earmarked for a potential expansion of Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group.

The demolition was approved by the council’s Planning Committee on Wednesday 8 July. Work is expected to take around 12 weeks to complete.

Site earmarked for college expansion

The former Wilko building forms part of a wider area identified for educational use in Stafford’s Town Centre Development Framework.

The plans show the college expansion covering the wider site, including the area currently occupied by the public toilets and Shopmobility facilities.

The framework identifies an educational development area of around 0.66 hectares, with the potential for a larger college building of up to four storeys.

It suggests the site could provide flexible teaching spaces alongside public-facing facilities such as cafés and exhibition areas.

The proposals remain at an early stage and detailed plans would still need to be developed and approved.

Parking and toilets remain available

Stafford Borough Council has said more than 70 parking spaces will remain available during the demolition work, including disabled bays.

The public toilets will also remain open while work is carried out.

The council purchased the former Wilko building using central government funding. The same regeneration programme has also included the purchase of the former Guildhall Shopping Centre and the former Co-op department store.

Part of wider town centre plans

The demolition forms part of a wider plan to transform the northern section of Stafford town centre.

The council’s Development Framework includes proposals for educational space, new homes, commercial units, improved public areas and a new market hall with food, drink, retail and entertainment.

It is intended to guide future development and attract investors to the town.

Anyone who wants to see what is proposed across the wider regeneration area can view the Development Framework and further information at:
https://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/stafford-regeneration