A petition to stop residential development on the site of Leek's Big Mill was signed by more than 100 people in just five days.

The Grade II-listed Big Mill in Leek was demolished following a fire that broke out on Friday 27 March.

A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of arson following the huge fire at a landmark North Staffordshire building. The individual has since been bailed as police continue their enquiries.

Developers had been trying to develop the Big Mill, originally constructed in 1857 by architect William Sugden, for nearly two decades.

Now the petition calls for the space to be used for 'community-focused regeneration'.

The most recent plans, outlined in 2019, by developer Mr Atique Choudhury, would have been the conversion of the Big Mill into 55 residential apartments.

Despite being submitted in 2019, the plans did not progress and are still awaiting a decision by planning officers. During this time the landmark building remained empty.

Now the petition calls on Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Leek Town Council to oppose and refuse any housing development on the site and work together to identify non-residential alternatives.

advertisement

The campaign was started by Jordan Williams and has currently been signed by 202 people.

The petition states: "The devastating fire that has destroyed Big Mill represents an irreplaceable loss to Leek's heritage, skyline, and collective memory. Residents are deeply concerned that this loss must not lead to redevelopment that permanently alters the historic character and community balance of the area.

"In accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), planning authorities must conserve and enhance the historic environment and give great weight to the preservation of heritage assets and their settings.

"Allowing intensive residential development following the destruction of a historic landmark risks undermining these principles and eroding the historic identity of Leek.

"This petition does not oppose regeneration. Rather, it calls for responsible, community-focused regeneration that respects Leek's industrial heritage and ensures the long-term benefit of residents rather than short-term residential expansion."

The petition can be signed here.