'Bring back indoor market': 85 per cent of Stafford residents say town has declined

Eighty-five per cent of Stafford residents feel that their town has got worse in recent years, according to an MP’s survey.

But Leigh Ingham, who commissioned the study, said more than half of those who took part continued to visit the town at least once a week, and expressed clear ideas of how they would like it to change.

Miss Ingham said 550 residents responded to her survey, which showed a clear appetite for the return of an indoor market to replace the one next to the Guildhall shopping centre which closed in 2024.

The market building, the shopping centre and a multi-storey car park were all demolished as part of a regeneration scheme, with only historic frontages and the former Chapel Tower remaining.

But a new indoor market is proposed as part of a redevelopment plan for the site.

Miss Ingham said she would ‘lead the charge’ for government investment to turn the site into a ‘buzzing venue’ to transform Stafford town centre.

She said she had already taken the findings of her survey to Chancellor, Rachel Reeves to make the case for government funding.

The survey found that the top three priorities for the future of Stafford town centre were the return of a regular indoor market, backed by 61 per cent, , the opening of empty, historic buildings, such as the old Marks & Spencer branch and Shire Hall, identified by 70 per cent, and more NHS provision in the town, supported by 71 per cent.

Better events and cultural attractions were identified by 38 per cent, and many called for better activities and facilities for young people, the MP said.

The town’s history and heritage, green spaces, and county town status came out as the top sources of local pride.

Miss Ingham 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.”

Miss Ingham has also presented her findings to the borough council.