Gearing up to Level Up in Leek

Published on 26 June 2023

The multi-million regeneration programme in Leek town centre is moving forward as the Council starts to share more details of what people can look forward to when the work is complete.

Earlier this year, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council was awarded £17.1m from the Levelling Up Fund to provide enhanced wellbeing, cultural and retail amenities in the town.

The Council is now sharing more information about the improvements planned at the three key locations included in the LUF bid:

• Brough Park Leisure Centre - where plans include replacing the existing main pool and learner pool with new facilities, extending the fitness suite, creating a second group exercise studio and providing a new dedicated indoor cycling studio
• Butter and Trestle Markets - these Victorian halls will be refurbished to broaden the appeal of the markets to customers and traders and to provide creative and artistic space for community use
• Nicholson Institute - the library and museum areas at this Grade II listed building will be redesigned to increase the range of services and events on offer and the lower ground floor will be converted so it can be brought back into use

Councillor Matt Swindlehurst, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, said: "It's such an exciting time for the Moorlands. The improvements we're delivering will enhance the attractiveness of our District to visitors and strengthen local economic resilience.

"Since the announcement of our successful bid at the start of this year we've been doing a lot of work behind the scenes which means, now the paperwork is signed and the funding confirmed, that we're in a good position to get on with turning the vision for a regenerated Leek into reality.

"I know people are really keen to have more details about what we're going to be doing at each of the three sites. We're currently working with specialist contractors and partners to develop the scope for each project into a position where plans can be shared with everyone. In the meantime, there's a few more details of what's planned on our website."

The Council will also be continuing discussions about the works to take place with stakeholders including market traders, leisure centre user groups, and staff at all three locations.

Keep up to date with the latest information on our website and Facebook and Twitter channels.