We, the undersigned residents, businesses, and supporters of Leek, call upon Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Leek Town Council to take all available planning measures to prevent any form of residential housing development on the site of the former Grade II listed Big Mill and its immediate surroundings.

Built in 1857, Big Mill stood for nearly 170 years as one of Leek’s most significant industrial landmarks. Designed by Victorian architect William Sugden, the six-storey Italianate red-brick mill was constructed during the height of Leek’s internationally renowned silk industry. The mill became home to Wardle & Davenport and employed thousands of local people, forming a cornerstone of the town’s economy, identity, and community life. Its Grade II listed status, awarded in 1972, recognised its special architectural and historic importance to the nation.

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.

We therefore respectfully request that Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Leek Town Council:

1: Refuse any planning application proposing housing development on the former Big Mill site, including flats, apartments, houses, or mixed residential schemes.

2: Publicly commit to preventing residential use of the site where such development would conflict with the historic character, setting, and community interests of Leek.

3: Work together to identify non-residential alternatives that deliver genuine public benefit, such as:

• heritage interpretation or memorial space
• community facilities
• cultural, educational, or employment uses
• green or civic public space

4: Strengthen planning protections to ensure the site is not subject to speculative residential redevelopment following the loss of the listed building.

Planning Justification:

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.

We therefore urge Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Leek Town Council to make a clear commitment that no form of housing development will be permitted on the Big Mill site.

Once lost, heritage cannot be rebuilt — only protected.

Signed,

Residents and supporters of Leek’s heritage.