Full interview with Susan Hanks on Radio Stoke Yesterday, I joined BBC Radio Stoke to talk about the news that Deakin’s Yard, the new student accommodation development in Newcastle-under-Lyme, will not be opening as planned this September. In the interview I explained how I first became aware of the situation, the steps I have taken since, and why serious questions now need to be answered about planning, oversight, and the developers’ responsibility to deliver the project saf

Earlier this week, I was delighted to host a coffee morning at Betley Village Hall, bringing local people together over a cuppa and a slice of cake. It was wonderful to see so many of you there and to have the chance to listen to your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. As your Member of Parliament, I want to make sure I’m spending the Summer Recess out and about across Newcastle-under-Lyme, meeting people face-to-face and hearing directly from you. This kind of event is exactly w

I am aware of rumours circulating about the future use of Gordon Court in Knutton – and of a protest now being planned in response to those claims. These rumours are unfounded. There are no plans for Gordon Court to be used to house asylum seekers or to operate as a so–called ‘migrant hotel’. I have discussed the issue with the Home Office, raised it with Newcastle-under-Lyme District Borough Council and have spoken directly to the new owner of the site following its sale by

Earlier today, I received the news that the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire had taken the decision to suspend Chief Constable Chris Noble while an independent investigation into allegations about his conduct takes place. This afternoon, I spoke with the Commissioner to discuss the situation. The investigation will now follow the appropriate independent process, and it’s important that this is respected. Public trust in policing is essential. The public r

I spoke in the final debate before Parliament’s summer recess to reflect on my first year as your MP.

Alongside local councillors, on Saturday I met with company representatives to discuss their proposal to close the local depot and relocate operations to Atherstone – a move that puts local jobs at risk. We made it clear: this decision would seriously impact the workforce. For many, commuting simply isn’t a realistic option. We challenged the claim that no suitable local site exists and put forward a viable alternative to keep FedEx in Newcastle-under-Lyme. With strong transp

One of the most persistent and serious issues raised with me since I became the Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme has been the poor state of our local roads. From vehicle damage to pedestrian hazards, constituents have made it clear that deteriorating road surfaces are causing real problems across the borough. To better capture the scale and specific locations of concern, I launched the Great Potholes Survey earlier this year. I wanted to hear directly from reside

This week, FedEx announced its intention to close the depot at Parkhouse Industrial Park — a decision that puts around 400 jobs in Newcastle-under-Lyme at risk. The site has operated for over 35 years and is home to a workforce made up largely of long-serving, highly experienced local people. FedEx says it plans to replace five UK depots, including Parkhouse, with two new ‘super hubs’ in Warwickshire and Buckinghamshire. But for workers here, that amounts to being told to rel

On Sunday, it was wonderful to welcome the St George’s Day Parade to St Giles Church in Newcastle-under-Lyme. I was honoured to join the Squirrels, Cubs, and Beavers — along with many members of our local community — for a wonderful and uplifting service led by Reverend Penduck. It was a powerful reminder of how St George’s Day continues to bring people together across generations and backgrounds. St George’s Day is more than just a date in the calendar — it’s an opportunity

This week, I was pleased to welcome Darren Jones MP , the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, to Silkworks, at Cross Street in Chesterton. Over 100 new affordable homes will be built on this site and across two others in our area, thanks to the Government’s £2 billion investment in social and affordable housing – the biggest boost to housing of its kind in a generation. This isn’t just about national figures or announcements – it’s about real change right here in Newcastle-und

On Friday, I had the pleasure of visiting the Brampton Museum as part of Visit England’s Tourism Week – a national celebration of the places, people, and businesses that make our tourism sector so special. During my visit, I met with representatives from our local tourism industry to discuss the opportunities and challenges they face, and how we can work together to strengthen what Newcastle-under-Lyme has to offer. From cultural attractions and historic sites to local hospit

A well-connected transport system is vital — for our local economy, for our health and wellbeing, and for building pride in our communities. But right now, too many people across Newcastle-under-Lyme are being let down by unreliable or non-existent local bus services. Whether it’s difficulty accessing shops, missed medical appointments, or young people losing out on opportunities — across Betley, Audley, Wolstanton and beyond, the message is clear: we need better. In the Hous

Outside the Tri Services and Veterans Support Centre on Hassell Street On Friday I was proud to welcome the Minister for Veterans, Al Carns MP, to Newcastle-under-Lyme for a visit to the Tri Services and Veterans Support Centre—an extraordinary charity that does vital work supporting veterans across our community and beyond. The centre, which has been operating since 2015, is run by veterans for veterans. It offers crucial services including help with housing, employment, and

I have just been advised that the operators of Walleys Quarry Landfill site notified the Environment Agency last night that they have gone into liquidation. This, in many ways, is no surprise. The operators at Walleys have been driven by profit over people, and now they have cut and run. It is an absolute disgrace and speaks to the failures surrounding the waste sector in our country. Be under no doubt, there will be a time to ensure that the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme ge

Grateful to all my Labour colleagues who spoke in my debate on Government Support for Coalfields yesterday. There was a real commitment to ending the days of empty words and broken promises to the people in our coalfield communities. We have much to do. You can find the full transcript of the debate here: https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2025-02-06/debates/71B19D39-5D97-4393-8035-8E09CA3F0A4F/details?fbclid=IwY2xjawIZXEdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcbIpsct3FixERNzx8KpZg7Z5XsxXLqi7v

I’ve raised the issue of flooding in Newcastle-under-Lyme repeatedly since the election. Yesterday, on my way to Parliament, I stopped by County Hall in Stafford to meet with councillors and officers at Staffordshire County Council . It’s crucial that the necessary steps are taken to deliver a lasting solution.

Shamelessly, the operators at Walleys Quarry went to the courts in a bid to accept waste until their attempt at appealing the Closure Notice was heard. That attempt was rejected today and rightly so. It’s good news for the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme.

130 years ago, 77 men and boys lost their lives in the Diglake Mining Disaster in Bignall End. This anniversary is a moment to remember them, honour their legacy, and recommit ourselves to ensuring that workers can safely and securely carry out their duties now and in the future.

A very busy day in Parliament. Thank you to Kevin Larkin from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust for coming to see me. Today, I have applied for a debate on ‘Supporting Coalfield Communities’ like ours in Newcastle-under-Lyme. There is much for us to do.

Walleys Quarry Ltd is appealing the Closure Notice issued by the Environment Agency in November 2024. Today, I submitted my representations to the Planning Inspectorate, making it clear that the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme have endured enough. This is a fight for clean air, justice, and the right to live in a safe environment. Read my full letter below. It’s time to uphold the Closure Notice and ensure Walleys Quarry is held accountable. Our community deserves nothing les