Backing for Stafford re-development

Businesses and shoppers in Stafford have welcomed plans to transform the former Guildhall Shopping Centre into a new market hall, although some have raised concerns about a lack of town centre parking.

The redevelopment will see the site converted into a venue housing 28 independent businesses, including shops, food stalls, cafes and bars, alongside space for events and live performances.

The project has been backed by £10m of government funding secured following a campaign by Stafford MP Leigh Ingham.

However, while traders said investment in the town centre was needed, some questioned whether enough had been done to make it easy for customers to visit