Stafford’s Guildhall Shopping Centre is to be demolished as part of an approved redevelopment programme for the centre of the Staffordshire market town.

The local council acquired the “ailing” 250,000 sq ft asset last year, marking the exit of its owner Mercia Real Estate after plans to develop the site stalled, Businessdesk reported.

The centre and its multi-story carpark will now be partly demolished while retaining the historic features, including the Market Street facade, clock tower and St John’s Market entrance, various local reports said.

The shopping centre, which was home to 38 retail units and an indoor market, was subsequently closed due to safety concerns.

A letter as part of the planning application states: “The current proposals involve the demolition of part of the vacant shopping centre, apart from the buildings on the eastern frontage along Greengate Street and the existing and occupied buildings at Market Square which are to be retained”.

Plans are to create a new commercial and residential offer in the centre of the town including a mix of stores, homes and public spaces, with proposals expected to be lodged within the next 12 months.