Hoardings depicting rich Burton history unveiled around multimillion pound development site

The rich history of a part of Burton upon Trent has been unveiled on hoarding surrounding a new £21.3 million housing development in the town centre by Trent & Dove.

The social housing provider revealed 198 metres of hoarding, which showcases the history of the land, known locally as Bargates, on High Street.

It was temporarily installed during the construction phase of the housing association’s £21.3 million development.

The development has been renamed Tyldesley Court, after Sir Thomas Tyldesley an English Civil War general who led a charge across Burton Bridge in 1643.

The scheme, which is being built by developer Morro, will consist of 72 high-quality independent living homes for older people and ten three-bed family homes all for rent.

Homes England is supporting the build with grant funding via Trent & Dove’s strategic partnership with Orbit Group.

Trent & Dove has worked in partnership with Burton Civic Society, the Burton Mail and the Magic Attic to create a timeline of the site along with photographs detailing its history.

The timeline begins in the 1800s when Thomas Salt established his own brewery on the site before it was demolished more than 100 years later.

A shopping centre and bowling alley were later built on the land in the 1960s but demolished in 2012. It then lay empty for more than 10 years until Trent & Dove started construction in 2023.

Chairman of Burton Civic Society, Mick Clifford said: “Burton Civic Society is delighted to collaborate with Trent & Dove to create a detailed timeline of the fascinating history of Bargates.

“We want to preserve and celebrate the heritage of our community, and this timeline gives people a chance to learn more about the land and how it played a part in our brewing and retail history.”

Chief executive of Trent & Dove, Ursula Bennion said: “I am thrilled to see the blueprint of our £21.3 million Tyldesley Court housing development now becoming reality as construction is well underway.

“The addition of hoarding detailing Burton's rich history is not only a testament to our commitment to preserving our heritage but is also a celebration of our vibrant community.

“This initiative not only enhances the construction site but also provides a sense of pride and connection among residents.

“I would like to thank all our partners who have helped not only create this timeline but made this fantastic housing offer a reality.”