Genr8 submits controversial CBD plans

PROPOSALS to develop a Central Business District (CBGD) in Stoke-on-Trent have taken a step forward.

Genr8 Developments, the developer of the scheme, has submitted detailed first phase proposals for the controversial project.

The scheme includes a 100,000 sq ft office building to be occupied by the city council as the anchor tenant.

This has proved a contentious decision with traders around the existing Civic Centre and other council buildings in Stoke saying the move to Hanley will sound the death knell for their businesses and for the area.

And some locally are arguing that spending an estimated £55m on a new headquarters against a backdrop of deep public sector cuts is a huge waste of public resources.

But the council is hoping to recoup the money through the sale of the Civic Centre and other buildings.

And is suggests the move is necessary as it will act as a regeneration catalyst.
It argues that with the council as the anchor tenant, the CBD scheme will attract new businesses and have a positive knock-on effect.

Councillor Mohammed Pervez, leader of Stoke-On-Trent City Council said: “Despite deep cuts to our funding from Government we are doing everything possible to stimulate jobs and growth in our city.

“I am aware of the controversy around the CBD and the council’s move to the city centre.

“However, a successful city needs a successful city centre and we need to act now to safeguard Stoke-on-Trent’s future.

“We can borrow money at a low interest rate to fund regeneration projects such as the central Business District but not to run services.

“We will do everything to minimise borrowing and raise the money from the sale of surplus land and property.”

The council suggests the construction of the CBD will create more than 300 jobs and that, when all six phases are complete, up to 4,500 jobs could be created.