Redevelopment schemes a 'defining moment' for town

The overall scheme has been labelled The Old Brewery Quarter

Securing planning permission for a series of cultural and heritage schemes has been described as a "defining moment" for Burton-upon-Trent's regeneration.

It is hoped high street redevelopment in the Staffordshire town will revitalise the area and lay the groundwork for future economic growth.

The projects have collectively been named The Old Brewery Quarter, celebrating Burton-upon-Trent's world-renowned brewing heritage.

"It sets a new standard for regeneration in the town and reflects the ambition and vision of our community," said East Staffordshire Borough Council cabinet member Louise Walker.

The authority also announced that food and beverage operator Loungers Ltd was the first to sign up to open a cafe-bar within the town's historical Bass House.

The new venue will serve ales brewed in the town, and is due to form part of a wider visitor attraction within the building.

The Old Brewery Quarter was due to be delivered in phases, the council said.

Restoration plans

Approval has been granted for Bass House to be opened as an immersive heritage experience, featuring interactive exhibits, a working pilot brewery and the National Brewery Heritage Archive.

Nearby, Town House will be restored, preserving its architectural heritage while adapting it for flexible future use.

The Water Tower will be repurposed as a visitor attraction, featuring a rooftop viewing platform with panoramic vistas across the Washlands and beyond.

A new events space will be created on the footprint of the former Trent House office building, designed as a hub for festivals, performances and community events.

It would also serve to connect the town centre with the historical brewery buildings and the Washlands, the council said.

The Washlands Visitor Centre, developed in partnership with the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, will provide educational and exhibition spaces as well as interactive classrooms, a cafe and a riverside terrace.

Meanwhile, the former Molson Coors headquarters at Carling House is set to be converted into a hotel.

Initial groundworks were due to begin on site in early 2026, the council said.