East Staffordshire Borough Council has been working on regeneration proposals since 2023, buying the neighbouring former Co-op building that year as part of wider plans for the site. A planning application has been submitted for the redevelopment, but a final decision has not yet been made due to delays. Council leaders say progress on the project is expected soon, though there have been delays in the planning process due to consultation work with Historic England, as Councillor Louise Walker noted: 'They did an in-depth look at it and what the High Street would look like without it, so that did put us back.'
The site has been described as dilapidated, with many units vacant for a long time and many dating back to the 1960s. Under current plans, once buildings are cleared, the area would be temporarily used for food vendors and market stalls, remaining until a permanent redevelopment scheme is delivered. The site will be demolished and landscaped as part of the first stage of the project, according to Councillor Louise Walker, who added: 'You will see some change by the end of the year.' However, it is not yet known what specific new development will replace the demolished units or when exactly the demolition and landscaping work will begin.
They did an in-depth look at it and what the High Street would look like without it, so that did put us back.
You will see some change by the end of the year.