Sixteen years after the BBC reported on the decline of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s high street, Six Towns Daily looks at why local people are still raising the same concerns in 2026, from empty units and a lack of independent businesses to the growing number of takeaways, vape shops and barbers.
Westminster is reportedly planning to abolish Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council by 2028, merging it into a "North Staffordshire" unitary authority. This potential move raises concerns about taxpayers assuming liability for Stoke-on-Trent's debt, prompting calls to preserve local independence, according to Six Towns Daily.
Staffordshire Police are hunting for a man after attempted break-ins at two businesses on Leek Road, Milton, overnight from Sunday into Monday. Officers are appealing for CCTV, doorbell and dashcam footage.
People going about their day in Hanley have once again been left witnessing scenes of violence in the town centre, with fighting breaking out in broad daylight.
A specialist aircraft operated by Bioflight was spotted flying over Stoke-on-Trent this evening, prompting questions about what exactly it was doing above the city.
Ongoing sinkhole repairs in Newcastle-under-Lyme are causing disruption for the nearby Boat and Horses pub, with road closures affecting deliveries and local trade.
Schools across Newcastle-under-Lyme are preparing to welcome pupils back as staff make final preparations ahead of the new academic year.
The A53 in Endon has reopened after emergency repair works caused a temporary road closure earlier today. Traffic is now moving again, although some congestion may remain as conditions return to normal.
Newcastle-under-Lyme residents receiving a single person Council Tax discount are being urged to return review forms promptly, with discounts potentially removed if forms are not completed.
Passengers travelling by train from Stoke-on-Trent are being warned of major disruption today (Sunday, August 23) after CrossCountry cancelled services across almost its entire network.
Children aged 15 and under are now facing restrictions on travelling alone on some First Bus services in Stoke-on-Trent after 6pm, following reports of anti-social behaviour at Hanley Bus Station and on buses.
Street signs across Kidsgrove are getting some much-needed TLC, with Councillor Olivia Westcott taking matters into her own hands and cleaning up signs that have started to show their age. More signs are now on her list for attention, but residents are being asked: is there one near you that needs a freshen-up?
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