I thought a Pound shop was opening in the former Haughtons furniture store and neighbouring units?
With regards to the perceived north / south divide - I live to the south of Stafford and when I do drive into Stafford Town Centre I park at the new car park because it allows me to pay on exit. In terms of shopping - I try to avoid that. However, I do frequent the proper pubs in Stafford, many of which are located in the 'north'; the Swan, Rose & Crown, Market Vaults and now No.7.
Stafford does not have a very big town centre, as such I'm sure the north and south of the town centre will survive and prosper, however investment is required in the Guidhall and the vacant units in the 'north' need to be replaced with decent shops.