A major event in London has promoted Burton’s regeneration plans to national leaders and investors.
The session took place at the House of Commons and was organised by We Are Staffordshire, Burton MP Jacob Collier, and representatives from the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF).
It brought together developers, investors, employers, government partners and local councils. The aim was to highlight investment opportunities in Burton and build interest ahead of the UKREiiF conference in Leeds in May.
What the event focused on
Speakers shared plans for Burton’s future and key regeneration projects, including:
- The Old Brewery Quarter
- Redevelopment of Bass House, Carling House and the Water Tower
- Plans for a hotel, public space and better links to the Washlands
- £23.8 million Towns Fund programme
- New indoor leisure and entertainment centre
- A modern food hall
- A Washlands Visitor Centre
- New homes in the town centre
- Restoration of historic buildings
- Town centre improvements
- Stronger evening and night-time economy
- More cultural activities
- A better place to live and work
- A50/A500 Growth Corridor
- A key national route supporting major manufacturing and logistics businesses
- Potential to create:
- Over 17,000 jobs
- 30,000 homes
- £12 billion in long-term economic growth
Tourism and wider opportunities
The event also highlighted Staffordshire’s growing visitor economy, now worth £2.74 billion and expected to pass £3 billion by 2030.
This creates new opportunities for Burton in:
- Hospitality
- Leisure
- Riverside tourism
Building national interest
UKREiiF attracts more than 16,000 investors, developers and government representatives each year.
By promoting Burton early, partners aim to:
- Raise its national profile
- Attract new investment
- Support future transport and housing plans
- Build long-term momentum for regeneration
What leaders said
Jacob Collier MP said the event helped promote Burton and Uttoxeter and support future investment. He highlighted ongoing projects such as improvements to Burton High Street and possible upgrades to the A50. He said investment would boost the local economy, create jobs and improve tourism and the evening economy.
Martin Murray, acting leader of Staffordshire County Council, said the event showed strong partnership working and a shared commitment to Burton’s future. He added that the town’s location, transport links and potential make it attractive for long-term growth.
Nathan Spencer, Managing Director of UKREiiF, said the event created positive conversations with investors. He confirmed plans to arrange visits to Burton and the wider area to continue discussions.
Mick Fitzpatrick, leader of East Staffordshire Borough Council, said the Old Brewery Quarter is one of the county’s most important regeneration projects and a key step in bringing new life to Burton while celebrating its heritage.
