Staffordshire News
News
Staffordshire's £120 million "Ceramic Valley" regeneration project reaches a major milestone with the opening of the new Stoke-on-Trent Innovation Centre. Meanwhile, emergency services respond to severe flooding in the Trent Valley, with multiple road closures between Stafford and Rugeley.
Business News
JCB announces plans to invest £65 million in its Uttoxeter factory to develop hydrogen-powered construction equipment, creating 300 new jobs. In the Potteries, Emma Bridgewater reports record sales with a 28% increase in exports to North America.
Economic News
Staffordshire's economy grows by 3.1%, slightly above the national average, with strong performance in advanced manufacturing and ceramics sectors. Rising energy costs continue to impact the region's pottery industry, prompting calls for government support.
Political News
Controversy surrounds HS2's revised plans for the Staffordshire stretch, with local MPs demanding better compensation for affected communities. The county council will debate the issue in a special session next week.
Election News
With local elections approaching in May 2026, Labour makes gains in traditional Conservative strongholds across the Potteries. Key issues include the future of Royal Stoke University Hospital and transport infrastructure improvements.
Employment News
Unemployment drops to 3.0%, the lowest since 2019, with particular growth in engineering and healthcare sectors. A new skills academy opens in Burton-upon-Trent, specializing in brewing and food manufacturing training.
Business News
Shares in Staffordshire-based companies show mixed performance, with ceramics giant Steelite International rising 4% after strong quarterly results. JCB parent company sees modest gains amid global construction market uncertainty.
Forecast
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Mon (Jun 16): Sunny intervals, 20°C
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Tue (Jun 17): Cloudy, 18°C
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Wed (Jun 18): Heavy rain, 16°C
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Thu (Jun 19): Showers, 15°C
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Fri (Jun 20): Sunny spells, 19°C
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Sat (Jun 21): Warm, 22°C
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Sun (Jun 22): Sunny, 23°C
Entertainment News
The newly refurbished New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme announces its autumn season, featuring a world premiere production about the history of the Potteries. Local band Slash Puppet reunites for a special hometown show at Stafford's Gatehouse Theatre.
Upcoming Events in Staffordshire
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June 28-22: Stoke-on-Trent Food & Drink Festival (City Centre)
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June 21: Staffordshire County Show (Weston Park)
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June 25: Burton Beer Festival (Burton Town Hall)
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June 28: Lichfield Festival (Various venues)
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July 2: Outdoor Cinema: "The Full Monty" (Hanley Park)
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July 5: Tamworth Arts Festival (Tamworth Castle Grounds)
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July 10: Slash Puppet Reunion Concert (Stafford Gatehouse)
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July 15: Alton Towers Summer Fireworks (Alton Towers Resort)
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July 20: Cannock Chase Walking Festival (Various locations)
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Aug 3-5: V Festival (Weston Park)
Transport Alert: Major upgrades to Stafford railway station will cause weekend service disruptions throughout June. Replacement bus services will operate.
Heritage News: The Wedgwood Museum in Barlaston unveils a new exhibition showcasing previously unseen designs by Josiah Wedgwood, including recently rediscovered sketchbooks.
Stay informed with the latest news from the heart of England!
Correction: In our previous edition, we incorrectly referred to "Stradfordshire." The correct name is Staffordshire. We apologize for this error.
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