Staffordshire's Spudman is saved! Council announces U-turn on 'eviction' plans after significant public feedback

Councillor Carol Dean, the leader of Tamworth Borough Council, has taken to social media to announce a change in the plans for St Editha's Square, Tamworth, following 'significant public feedback'. 

The plans, which are part of the council's £21 million regeneration scheme, would have seen flower beds placed in the square, just off of Church Street, as well as enhancing the walkway between the castle grounds to the town centre. 

However, the plans, which were originally lodged in 2023, would have also meant a forced change of location for the legendary TikTok star Ben Newman, known better by his online moniker 'Spudman'.

Now, the council has made a revision to the flowerbed portion of the plans, meaning that Spudman will be able to remain at his original location on the square. 

Significant public feedback

Ben Newman gained a mass following on social media, achieving more than four million followers on TikTok, where he shared clips about his business, with thousands of people visiting to buy one of his £5 jacket potatoes.

Following the announcement of his eviction, an online petition was launched, which was signed by more than 100,000 people.

In a statement posted online, Councillor Dean said: "We’ve heard the clear and passionate voice of our community about plans for St Editha's Square. The overwhelming response has demonstrated how deeply our residents and visitors care about our town centre and its traders. 

"I want to assure everyone that Tamworth Borough Council exists to serve our community, and when we get such a strong message, it is our duty to listen, consider and respond. 

"Therefore, I am announcing that we have revised our plans for Editha's Square. This was a considered decision at the Future High Street Fund board meeting, where councillors, from both Labour and Conservative groups are represented."

Spudman is saved

The revised plans will mean that the locations of the flowerbeds, which would have pushed Spudman off of his usual patch, will be moved, however, benches will be placed in the square for all to use.

The councillor added: "This decision means that Ben Newman, known to many as 'Spudman', will be able to return to their original trading location."

"We value the contribution of all our local traders who bring character and vitality to our town centre, and very much look forward to traders once again back on the square when the works are complete. 

"Work is continuing as planned, and we anticipate reopening the area at the end of May, as originally scheduled."