It’s Official: Planning Approved for The Old Brewery Quarter!

We’ve been keeping you in the loop for months now on the exciting plans to breathe new life into Burton’s High Street and brewery heritage… and we’re delighted to report that it’s finally happening.

East Staffordshire Borough Council has granted full planning permission for the ambitious redevelopment now officially named The Old Brewery Quarter — a nod to Burton’s world-famous brewing past, with a bold step into the future.

📍 You may remember from our earlier newsletters that this regeneration includes a whole host of projects – from cultural and visitor attractions to hospitality venues and revamped public spaces – all centred around celebrating what makes Burton brilliant.

💬 Councillor Louise Walker called it “an important moment” for the town – and we couldn’t agree more.

🏛️ What’s Coming to The Old Brewery Quarter?

Here’s a flavour of what’s been approved:

🍺 Bass House will be transformed into an interactive Brewing Heritage and Social History Experience, complete with exhibits, a working pilot brewery, and the National Brewery Heritage Archive.

You’ll be able to sip local ale and explore our town’s world-renowned brewing story under one historic roof.

☕ Loungers Ltd (the folks behind Lounge and Cosy Club) are confirmed as the first commercial operator. They’ll open a Lounge café-bar inside Bass House – a laid-back spot blending pub, restaurant and coffee shop, and serving Burton-brewed beers too.

🌿 The Washlands Enhancement Project is already complete – you might have seen the new natural timber play area, boardwalks and relaxing riverfront. It’ll be joined by the Washlands Visitor Centre, created with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, offering interactive classrooms, exhibition spaces and riverside views.

🎭 A new Events Square will spring up where the old Trent House stood, perfect for markets, performances, festivals and community events – finally linking the High Street with the Washlands in one seamless, social space.

🏨 Carling House (yes, the old Molson Coors HQ) is set to become a modern hotel, bringing much-needed accommodation right into the heart of town.

🔭 And not forgetting the Water Tower, which will become a striking visitor attraction with rooftop views across Burton and beyond. Town House will also be carefully restored and given a new lease of life.

🎙️ “A Key Foundation for Future Generations”
Dr Harry White from the National Brewery Heritage Trust hailed the approval as a “major step forward” in preserving Burton’s heritage for future generations. We couldn’t put it better ourselves.

📅 What’s Next?

You’ll start seeing signs of activity on site from early 2026 as groundwork begins. Site surveys are already underway.

This regeneration is being delivered in phases, and it’s not just about bricks and mortar – it’s about celebrating Burton’s past, present and future. From education to entertainment, brewing to biodiversity, this is a huge win for the town.

We’ll keep you updated every step of the way – but for now, raise a glass to the Old Brewery Quarter… Burton’s best days are still brewing. 🍻