Context
Stoke-on-Trent has benefited from the brownfield regeneration fund but faces challenges with under-engaged site owners and limited compulsory purchase powers. The city is not part of a mayoral combined authority, which restricts its ability to take action.
Question
What steps his Department is taking to help support house building in Stoke-on-Trent? Stoke-on-Trent has benefited from money from the brownfield regeneration fund. However, there are many brownfield sites across the city that could be used for local planning development, but the owners are simply not engaging with the process. Given that we are not in a mayoral combined authority, compulsory purchase powers are limited. Will the Minister consider devolving those powers to authorities like Stoke? If not, will he consider allowing interim development corporations, until such time as we have a mayor in place?
Answer from The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
My hon. Friend is a doughty champion for his constituency, and he continues to make a powerful case for the renewal of Hanley city centre as the commercial heart of north Staffordshire. I have had a series of constructive meetings with him and other local leaders about the Hanley masterplan. I know he will welcome the £8 million of investment in Burslem town centre, delivering 800 homes. I am more than happy to continue the conversation with him about the possibility of a new locally led development corporation to take forward the regeneration of the city centre.
Not addressed: The Minister did not directly address whether he would consider devolving compulsory purchase powers or allowing interim development corporations, but expressed willingness to continue discussions on local initiatives for regeneration.
How: Continuing The Conversation, Constructive Meetings
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