99 New Apartments Approved to Revive Hanley’s City Centre
A key part of Hanley’s skyline is about to take on a new lease of life. Stoke-on-Trent City Council has approved plans to convert the empty Telecom House into 99 residential apartments, marking a significant step in efforts to revitalise the city centre.
Located on Trinity Street, the seven-storey building once served as a BT office but has stood vacant since late 2023. Now, under the guidance of developer TT Group, it will be transformed into a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom flats all meeting national space standards and aimed at modern city living.
Councillors have welcomed the plans, highlighting the need to increase footfall and create a more vibrant city centre. “We need more people living in Hanley,” said Councillor Adrian Knapper. “This kind of development supports local businesses and helps bring energy back into the area.”
What makes this project stand out is its emphasis on sustainability and reuse. Rather than demolishing the building, developers are preserving and repurposing it, an approach praised for its lower environmental impact. Committee chair Andy Platt said, “It’s encouraging to see a scheme that adds value without adding waste. This brings both environmental and economic benefits.”
Though some concerns were raised about the lack of on-site parking, the development’s city centre location and public transport links were seen as strong justifications for a car-free approach. Over 100 bike storage spaces and a travel plan will support future residents in using sustainable transport.
More than just a housing project, the conversion of Telecom House signals a broader shift toward city centre living, one that could help reshape Hanley into a more connected, dynamic place to live and work.
