Citylife in Lichfield March 2024

Revitalising Our City!
By Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council
Nearly two years ago, the new owners of
Three Spires Shopping Centre
approached Lichfield District Council
regarding the possibility of working
together to repurpose the vacant
Debenhams building into a boutique
cinema. Recognising the potential benefits
of using an existing building rather than
developing a new site, both parties
embarked on a challenging journey aimed at
enhancing the city centre’s appeal and
stimulating economic activity.
The subsequent phases of the project required multiple parties to work
together methodically - comprising legal experts, financial analysts, and
construction professionals working in concert to overcome the myriad
logistical challenges inherent in the redevelopment process (the building
did not lend itself naturally to being a cinema!).
Negotiations have now culminated in the execution of a 25-year lease
agreement with Everyman, a highly reputable national cinema operator
renowned for its emphasis on delivering premium cinematic experiences.
Everyman's operational ethos, characterised by an emphasis on quality,
sophistication, and hospitality, aligns seamlessly with the overarching vision
for the revitalisation of Lichfield's urban landscape.
However, the transformation of the Debenhams building represents
merely one aspect of a broader redevelopment initiative. Concurrent
efforts include the integration of a rooftop bar and a spacious plaza,
designed to augment the city centre’s recreational and social amenities.
Additionally, plans are underway to repurpose the former Tempest Ford
site into high-quality residential accommodation, thereby enriching the
city's residential fabric.
In the interim, measures will be implemented to enhance public
infrastructure and amenities, including the development of open spaces,
office facilities, and a hotel. These initiatives are intended to foster a
cohesive and harmonious blend of commercial, residential, and
recreational elements, thereby contributing to the creation of a vibrant
and sustainable urban environment.
Central to the project's ethos is a commitment to inclusivity and
community engagement. Everyman's diverse film selection, encompassing
mainstream releases, independent films, and timeless classics, ensures that
cinematic offerings cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences.
Special events, film premieres, and live broadcasts further enrich the
cultural landscape, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared
experiences among patrons.
The redevelopment of Debenhams signifies a concerted effort to
revitalise Lichfield's urban core through strategic planning and
collaboration. As the project progresses, its impact will extend beyond the
realm of infrastructure, revitalising the city's cultural and economic vitality
for generations to come. With Everyman's involvement, Lichfield's
landscape is poised to undergo a transformation that is both measured
and meaningful - and will finally unlock this key part of our city.
Partnership: The Key to Success
By Darren Ennis, Leader of Burntwood Town Council
Spring is such a lovely time and for us at
Burntwood Town Council, it also marks the
beginning of several exciting partnerships.
few months ago, we ran a survey asking
residents where they felt our grant funding should
go, and we were told loudly and clearly that we
should be funding youth services for 11 to 18-
year-olds, and adult mental health and wellbeing
support. As a result of this feedback, we asked
charities and community groups to apply to us for funding to deliver
projects addressing those key areas, and last month Councillors were
delighted to award £15,000 each to three organisations over three years
to deliver much needed services
Fun Club Hub will be able to continue to offer a weekly youth club for
local teenagers, providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive space to be as
well as fun and engaging activities and support.
Platinum Boxing have a fantastic track record of supporting our
community. Their organisation offers free places for young people who
have financial barriers to accessing training. Our funding will provide the
chance for Platinum to continue to grow and work with more kids in our
community.
Burton and District Mind will be offering new activities and
opportunities to support adults with their mental health, as well as
having a longer term aim to establish a community venue here.
We are proud to invest in these organisations and bring more
opportunities to our town, I simply wish we had more money to give. We
had many applicants, and we could easily have selected additional groups.
We also begin another exciting partnership this month with the
Lichfield Garrick Theatre, bringing performing arts and creative activities
to Burntwood. The Town Council have contributed to the Garrick’s
budget for this project and we will be working with them to deliver this
new initiative.
A new addition that some residents may have spotted are several cycle
racks which we have supplied and installed in every shopping area to
make it more convenient for residents who may wish to ride to our local
businesses.
Further details about the Town Council can be found by following
us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, or on our NEW website
www.burntwood-tc.gov.uk
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