Plans to transform Stafford town centre have received a £10million boost, with Government funding set to support the development of a new market hall.

The funding was announced by Chancellor John Healey on Wednesday 28 October, with Stafford Borough Council welcoming the investment as a major step towards delivering its regeneration plans for the county town.

The proposed market hall is set to become a central feature of the redevelopment, bringing together independent traders, artisan retail, food and drink outlets and entertainment in a new destination for residents and visitors.

Councillor Aidan Godfrey, Leader of Stafford Borough Council, said the funding would help turn the council’s vision for the town centre into reality.

He said: “This is fantastic news for Stafford, a major win for our town centre, and contributes directly to the ambitious plans we set out for the county town.

“From the outset of this journey to transform our town centre we had earmarked a new market hall at the heart of our plans - and securing this funding means we can begin to realise those ambitions with a vibrant destination for residents, visitors and businesses alike.”

The market hall forms part of a wider Development Framework unveiled earlier this year, setting out proposals to reshape key sites across Stafford town centre. Alongside the new market, the plans include additional commercial opportunities, a variety of accommodation, pocket parks, improved public spaces and an expansion of Newcastle and Stafford College Group, while retaining the town’s historic landmarks.

The regeneration programme began with the council acquiring the former Guildhall Shopping Centre and the derelict former Co-operative department store, both of which have since been demolished. Demolition work is also under way at the former Wilko building, which has been earmarked for additional college premises.

The £10million investment marks a significant step in the council’s ambition to deliver what it describes as the biggest transformation of Stafford town centre in a generation.

More information about the proposals is available on the Stafford Borough Council regeneration website.