The multi-million pound transformation of Leek’s retail, cultural and leisure amenities to regenerate the town centre is underway.
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council was awarded £17 million from the Government’s Levelling Up fund to invest in:
- Rejuvenating the Victorian Butter and Trestle Markets whilst retaining their character
- Redeveloping Brough Park Leisure Centre to provide new pools, fitness facilities, indoor adventure/soft play and a community wellness suite
- Refurbishing the museum and library at the Nicholson Institute and bringing the lower ground floor back into use
Work started last month at the indoor market halls and contractors are also on site carrying out preliminary work at the Nicholson Institute.
A public consultation exercise on the proposals for Brough Park Leisure Centre is currently taking place (closes Friday 10th May) and the planning application for this project has now been submitted to the Council.
Councillor Matt Swindlehurst, Cabinet Member for the Levelling Up projects, said: “It’s fantastic to see the progress we’re making with all three of these projects which, together, will deliver exciting new spaces and opportunities for our communities, businesses and visitors.
“Work is now well underway at the markets and the Nicholson Institute and we’ll be on site at the leisure centre later this year – so it’s a busy time with lots going on and so much to look forward to!
“This significant investment in some of Leek’s best loved buildings and amenities will rejuvenate not just the town but the wider district as well and provide the fit-for-the-future facilities the Moorlands deserves.”
Work at the markets is expected to be completed by the autumn. In the meantime, many of the indoor market traders continue to operate on the outdoor markets, from other venues or online.
Arrangements for the library to continue to operate from Moorlands House whilst work at the Nicholson Institute is carried out are being made and alternative venues for leisure centre users to visit are being finalised. Full details will be made available before these venues temporarily close.
