Main Offices

The first part of implementing the Masterplan, known as Phase 1A, was to convert the group of buildings that used to be the Main Offices, Wages Office and Laboratory. These are close to the site entrance, and in reasonably good condition, so it was felt that they could be rented out to businesses and thus generate some income for the site.

The application for planning permission for the conversion was submitted in 2004, and permission was granted in 2005.

At the same time, the access road to Whitfield was widened and a roundabout constructed at its junction with the A527 between Fegg Hayes and Biddulph. The road was designed to improve access for the whole site, and thus make it a better place for businesses to locate.

Funding for the conversion of the Main Office complex and the road came from English Partnerships and the European Union.

Work on Phase 1A was completed in early 2006.