6,000 HOMES ‘WILL HELP AREA THRIVE’
Long-term regeneration strategy unveiled
MORE than 6,000 homes could be built in the Staffordshire Moorlands over the next decade – according to new plans drawn up for the region.
Staffordshire County Council has launched its Staffordshire Moorlands Growth Strategy – a long-term development plan for the district with the aim of ‘improving connectivity and ensuring people have the right skills to take advantage of employment opportunities over the next decade’
The strategy aims to do this by: ■ Building 6,080 homes by 2031. The properties will be divided up between Leek (30 per cent), Biddulph (20 per cent), Cheadle (25 per cent) and elsewhere (25 per cent); ■ Regenerating town centres in Leek, Cheadle and Biddulph; ■ Capitalising on tourist opportunities;
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council leader Sybil Ralphs said: “This strategy gives definition to our shared ambitions to see the Moorlands continue to thrive and grow. We know what our strengths are and what needs to be done to develop and enhance them so that we put our residents and businesses in the best position to fulfil that potential.
“This plan sets out a clear way forward by identifying the key areas for development that will be the catalysts and foundations of future growth and opportunities.
“I very much welcome it and look forward to seeing progress on delivering this vision.”
The strategy will now be discussed by Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet next Wednesday.
County council leader Philip Atkins said: “Staffordshire Moorlands has unique local attributes which contribute to the Staffordshire’s economic growth and residents’ wellbeing and this strategy will build on these strengths.
“It is renowned for its natural environment and vibrant town centres which we want to support and enhance through initiatives such as the Mill Quarter regeneration in Leek, transport improvements in Cheadle and new housing in Biddulph.
“We also want to build on the entrepreneurial drive in the Moorlands, where 93 per cent of businesses which started four years ago are thriving.
“The future prosperity of the Staffordshire Moorlands and across the county will enhance people’s health and ability to live longer, enjoyable, independent lives.”