Over 550 Stafford residents have shared their views on Stafford town centre in a survey with local MP Leigh Ingham. The survey showed a clear appetite for a revival of Stafford’s indoor market, with the MP saying she will “lead the charge” for the Government investment this project needs to become a buzzing venue that transforms Stafford town centre. The MP has already taken the survey findings directly to the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, to make the case for Government funding.
In the survey,85% of respondents said the look and feel of Stafford town centre has got worse in recent years. But residents are not giving up on their town: 50% said they visit the town centre every day or every week, and residents have strong ideas for how they want to turn things around.
The top three priorities for the future of Stafford town centre were thereturn of a regular indoor market (61%), opening up empty and historic buildings (70%), such as M&S and the Shire Hall, and better events and cultural attractions (38%). Residents also backed more NHS provision in the town centre (71%), and many called for better activities and facilities for young people.
The survey also highlighted what residents love about Stafford: history and heritage, green spaces, and county town status came out as the top sources of local pride.
Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford, Eccleshall, and the villages, said: “Residents have spoken – they want Stafford town centre to reach its full potential, to be a vibrant county market town – a thriving, bustling centre for visitors and residents.
“Key to this future is the return of the indoor market. Done well, this would be a real visitor attraction and an economic and cultural centre for our town, driving footfall and giving businesses the confidence to invest. I’m going to fight for the funding needed to bring our indoor market back to life.
“My vision is for a vibrant, all-day market destination, with a food court, bars, and café culture alongside artisan retail, start-up units, and spaces for socialising and performances. All of these things are in reach for Stafford, if we get the right funding, plan, and support. And that is my absolute priority.”
As well as meeting the Chancellor, the MP has written to Stafford Borough Council to share the findings and come up with a practical plan for next steps.
High street regeneration is a long-standing priority for Leigh Ingham. As well as campaigning for the indoor market, she has supported legislation to open vacant shops, hosts the annual Stafford Small Business Awards, and has secured £1 million for a new Adult Skills Hub at Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group on the high street.