Stafford’s Night-Time Economy Shows Signs of Recovery After Pandemic

A high street is experiencing a resurgence in its night-time economy as businesses recover from the effects of the pandemic. Since the coronavirus lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, nearly 2,000 late-night businesses have closed in the West and East Midlands, according to the Night Time Industries Association. This revival also comes at a time of heightened awareness regarding drink spiking and the financial pressures of the cost of living. However, Jack Taylor-Walker, a Stafford business owner who operates two bars in the town and is in the process of acquiring a former nightclub, stated that the town’s night-time economy was “on its way back”. Additionally, street pastors have confirmed the safety of the nightlife in the Staffordshire town, as people prepare for festive get-togethers. Mr. Taylor-Walker commented: “We’re a young business. We’ve only been around about five years and we have been able to expand to where we are now. We’ve got multiple locations across the county as well. We’re not just Stafford. We have branched out.” He expressed being “excited” about his new venue, adding: “It’s an old massive chain and we’ve taken it. We’ve just started ripping out and we’re ready for a couple of weeks’ time to open.” He further asserted: “The economy, the nightlife economy, and the safety is on its way back.” He noted that many people “moaned” about market towns because they were not city centres, but he encouraged: “Come and give us a try.” Street pastor Jeanne Morris explained that a team of pastors is on duty in Stafford from approximately 22:30 GMT, when they “start walking round the town”. She elaborated: “Then, as the night progresses, we might meet people who have become vulnerable during the night out and so we have all kinds of things in our rucksacks.” She also mentioned that the team parks on Bridge Street, considering it an advantageous location because “every venue just about can see it”. Ms. Morris stated: “The nightlife in Stafford is regarded as quite safe compared with a lot of the towns and cities around and the rest of Staffordshire.” For further updates, follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.