Plans submitted to repurpose old brewery site

The scheme for the old Bass Brewery includes a visitor centre, exhibition space, a hotel and public events area

A planning application has been submitted for the regeneration of a former brewery site in Staffordshire.

The scheme for the old Bass Brewery in Burton-upon-Trent includes a visitor centre and exhibition space as well as a hotel and an area for public events and festivals.

While the application is being considered, East Staffordshire Council plans to organise public tours of Bass House in the spring.

The local authority said a similar initiative had been popular with residents in the autumn, and that further details would be published in due course.

Cabinet member for regeneration, Paul Walker, said he was pleased the project had reached a significant milestone.

"Burton's proud brewing past is an important part of the town's history and I would encourage residents of East Staffordshire to voice their opinions on the submitted plans," he said.

Dr Harry White, chair of the National Brewery Heritage Trust, said his organisation had been working with the council for more than a year to develop the plans for a new brewing heritage experience on the site.

"We know from our many conversations with the public that there is a great deal of support for this landmark project," he said.

Councillor Paul Walker says brewing is an important part of Burton-upon-Trent's heritage

If approved, the scheme would see refurbishment of Bass House to provide an immersive social history experience, incorporating the National Brewery Heritage Trust's archive.

It would also involve refurbishment of Town House and a conversion of The Water Tower.

The council said an outdoor area for public events and festivals would help build on recent initiatives that had taken place in the town.

Meanwhile, Carling House would be converted into a hotel and a new Washlands Visitor Centre would also be created, supported by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.

The centre would include exhibition space, learning space and a café, according to the proposals.

The full plans can be viewed on the council website or at the Brewery Heritage Centre on Station Street during opening hours.