The Angel – Issue 2, Autumn 2006

the

ANGEL

AN UPDATE ON BURSLEM REGENERATION PROGRESS ISSUE 2 Autumn 2006

Fit for the future Burslem’s new generation of youngsters equipped for healthy living See page eight

New pounds are beginning to be spent

By Hugh Edwards, Chairman of The Burslem Regeneration Company

M

ONEY is being spent in Burslem.

Houses are being built, and sold in numbers, and a real momentum is being generated, which will start a ball rolling to bring in new pounds to the Mother Town. New pounds are what is needed to complete the regeneration of the jewel in the Potteries’ crown.

There is money from tourists visiting our factory shops, potteries and visitor attractions, and money from residents, new and old, who not only live, but also work, eat, shop and enjoy life within the community.

The Burslem Regeneration Company has a unique role in this process, by forging partnerships with public and private sector organisations involved in key developments. If it’s going on in Burslem, we must be a part of it, and not just in a talking shop. We must be an active partner in many of the exciting developments in the town, giving them a direction that benefits Burslem – that benefits our residents, businesses and communities.

Plans for the indoor market, which will be unveiled in detail in the next issue of The Angel, are a great example of this.

Three proposals unveiled in November will further show how private sector developers have confidence in Burslem’s future, building on its rich ceramic heritage, while recognising its very real ceramic future. A survey of Stoke-onTrent six years ago showed there were 234 pottery companies in the city. Today there are 312, plus 77 factory shops. This is not a picture of a dying industry, but of one that is changing, and still has a magnificent contribution to make to our city, and to Burslem.

Progress described in The Angel shows the Mother Town now has a strong foundation on which to build for the future. The Burslem Regeneration Company has already taken responsibility for giving that progress direction, and the town is starting to reap the benefits. From now on the regeneration company must be directly involved as well.

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Soon to be redeveloped – the historic courtyard at the former Royal Doulton factory.

St Modwen set to reveal plans E

XCITING plans for the former Royal Doulton factory site at Burslem are set to be unveiled by developers St Modwen Properties.

A planning application is expected to be made to the City Council before Christmas for the 11 acres of land located in a key area of the town and preparation work could start early next year.

St Modwen Regional Director Mike Herbert has revealed that the proposals will include a mix of business units, offices, workshops and around 175 new homes.

He said the housing will be good quality of mixed styles suitable for an urban location including fashionable mews properties as well as more traditional homes.

Althought most of the old factory will be demolished, the historic courtyard buildings at the former main entrance in Nile Street will be retained for the business element of the scheme – providing an appropriate link with the town centre.

Mr Herbert said: “Building new homes around the town centre is vital for the

regeneration of Burslem. Bringing people back into town is the key.

“Architecturally speaking, Burslem is perhaps the most attractive of the Six Towns of the Potteries. It is a traditional, attractive town and has potential to again become a vibrant centre and great asset for the city.”

David Rogers, a Director of the Burslem Regeneration Company and Chairman of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Strategic Partnership, said St Modwen’s involvement with the town was welcome bearing in mind its track record with massively successful developments at Festival Park and Trentham Gardens.

“St Modwen’s input will make an important contribution towards the growing confidence in the commercial future of Burslem,” said Mr Rogers. “We were all depressed by the news that the Royal Doulton factory was closing but now we have the opportunity to develop the site in a way which will bring jobs, visitors and, most importantly, residents back to the centre of the Mother Town.”

Education scheme helps lead the way

Stoke-on-Trent North MP Joan Walley, centre right, officially opens the Queen Street development and is presented with a plaque by Lesley Waring , Managing Director Touchstone Housing. Looking on, left to right, are live/work unit tenants Adele Baskeyfield and Karen Sayle, Harold Harper of Burslem Heritage Society, John Webbe, Senior Regeneration Manager for Touchstone, and tenant Jason Conway.

A great place to

live and work A

“It is more evidence that the regeneration PIONEERING £850,000 development in the centre of Burslem that allows entrepreneurs to masterplan is beginning to bear fruit and the signs of revival are starting to show.” live and work in the same building has proved Among the people who have already signed-up are a success. a photographer, software designer, wedding stationer Funded with the help of the regional development agency Advantage West Midlands, the scheme at 7-11 and a graphic designer.

Camila Prada, 29, a ceramic designer, who runs her Queen Street is the first of its kind in North firm Vinila from the development, said: “It's great to Staffordshire and is designed for people working in have this space to live and work in, it's private, the creative sector. professional and homey all at Housing company Touchstone have already let five the same time.” of the scheme’s six purpose-built one-bed live/work units with a deal on the sixth close.

To find out more log-on to The three ground-floor creative retail/workshop www.burslemlivework.org.uk units have also received a flurry of inquiries and the company are in negotiations with several firms.

Senior Regeneration Manager for Touchstone, John Webbe said: “Live/Work blurs the distinction between living and working by providing a combination of both residential and commercial space.

“Each of our residents is also supported by the Business Innovations Centre to help them on the road to business success.

“This development is situated in the heart of Burslem – a town steeped in creative Joan is pictured on heritage and fast becoming the creative hub the stylised glass of North Staffordshire. There are a lot of and steel staircase exciting things happening in this town – as which provides a this scheme has proven.” rear access to the Stoke-on-Trent North MP Joan Walley, who live/work units. officially opened the Queen Street scheme, said: “The development combines quality renovation of buildings with the creation of jobs and bringing of people back into the town.

A PILOT scheme to allow Stoke on Trent College sixth form students to begin qualifications in January if they miss the traditional September starts in the new year.

The option will give students who exceed their expected results a chance to change their choices and give the Burslembased college an edge over the competition.

From next year, students can make January starts in Science and IT at AS level, English and Maths at GCSE and public services at foundation level.

Students with borderline results at level 2 GCSE can also start a level 2/3 course in September which will turn into an AS or GCSE level course in the January – dependent on how they perform in their modules.

Head of the sixth form centre Anna Dent said: “This has been introduced because there is a problem with 17-year-olds who are termed as NEETS – Not in Education, Employment or Training.

“A lot of them who have not made a decision by September realise within the first few weeks they have made a mistake with their course or have done better than expected in their GCSE’s.

“This initiative is cutting edge as far as Stoke-on-Trent is concerned and will give the people of Burslem more opportunities to lead the way in education.”

There is a new prospectus available detailing the January starts available from October by phoning the college on 01782 603613.

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Angel delight THE first issue of The Angel with Robbie Williams on the front cover is set to become a collectors’ item.

Eight thousand copies of the publication – which carried an exclusive good luck message for Burslem from the rock megastar – were distributed to people and businesses in and around the Mother Town.

But staff at the regeneration office in the School of Art have been inundated with requests for extra copies.

“I think it is the Robbie factor,” said Kevin Birks, Project Co-ordinator for the Burslem Regeneration Company.

“I’ve had people banging on my office door asking for copies of the first issue – many of them were Robbie fans wanting them as souvenirs.

“They are in short supply now – so I wouldn’t be surprised if some eventually end up on eBay!” Robbie’s personal message in which he revealed that Burslem “was always in my heart” has been heralded as a real morale-booster for the town.

Kevin added:“It’s marvellous that Robbie never forgets his roots and is always prepared to promote Burslem and Stoke-on-Trent – it is helping to put the area on the map to people around the world.”

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■ Anyone for table tennis?

Pupils Nathan Ball, aged nine, left, and 11-year-old Declan Lewis about to enjoy a game in the school hall.

School hall gives all in community a

fitness lesson A

SCHOOL in Burslem is helping people in the town to learn about fighting the flab and staying in good shape.

Since a splendid new sports hall at John Baskeyfield VC CE (C) Primary was opened two years ago, it has become an established community amenity – especially for weight conscious adults who want to shed pounds as well as Stoke-on-Trent’s unenviable record for obesity.

The hall has proved popular with the 400-plus pupils – and out of school hours it’s in demand by groups and clubs who hire the sports facility for a wide range of activities.

Weight watchers and a Pilates group are just two of the regular adult attractions, while children of junior school age enjoy gymnastics, table tennis, basket ball, drama and self defence. The hall can also be hired for special events like birthday parties.

The John Baskeyfield School in Westport Road was purpose – built and opened in 2001 to replace

four ageing primary schools in the area. Now the school is striving to achieve the Government’s National Healthy Schools Status.

To succeed they will have to satisfy key criteria that include healthy eating and the sort of physical education facilities offered by the sports hall. And during a recent OFSTED inspection – which earned the school a glowing report – pupils told the inspector about how proud they are of their sports hall.

Ian Picken, the school’s Business Manager and Head of Support Services, said: “It is more than a sports hall. Groups and individuals from the local community are using it for all sorts of activities.

“All the fees for hiring the hall are used to help meet the cost of maintaining and equipping this superb facility. We are looking to attract more bookings from clubs, groups or individuals.”

To inquire about hiring the sports hall phone Ian on 01782 234950.

COVER PIC: nine-year-old Ashley Hopwood takes part in a gymnastic session in the hall.

Mr and Mrs BURSLEM ‘The town is in my blood,’ says City Lord Mayor

S

TOKE-ON-TRENT’S first citizens – Lord Mayor Jean Edwards and her Consort and husband Harry – could just as well be given the title Mr and Mrs Burslem.

Jean, a popular councillor for Burslem Central since 1979, and Harry, who represented Burslem Grange for four years, have fought the Mother Town’s corner for many a year.

Now, as they celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, and Jean’s 70th birthday with a year of civic office, the couple have pledged to keep a close eye on the town’s progress.

“The town is in my blood,” said jean. “As a child I lived on the Stanfields estate and remember going into Burslem every week with my mum to shop at the Co-op Emporium at the end of Queen Street.

“As councillors both Harry and I pressed for Burslem to be given the priority it needs as a regeneration area.

“It’s great to see so much happening in the town, but these are critical times, and so much hangs in the balance for important facilities like the indoor market.”

Jean paid tribute to the many people working for the town’s future, but urged them to make sure the pace of recovery never slackens.

The Lord Mayor, who has years of experience working on council committees as diverse as highways and housing, social services and planning, said: “We’ve all got to work harder to make sure Burslem receives the investment and assistance it deserves.

“When I finish my year as Lord Mayor I will be straight back in there, working for the ward and making sure Burslem continues to go forward.”

Stoke-on-Trent Lord Mayor and Consort – Burslem councillor Jean Edwards and her husband Harry, who was also a councillor, take a stroll around the Mother Town.

Church centre has a warm welcome for everyone A PROJECT by Swan Bank Methodist Church to create a community centre with a warm welcome for everyone will soon be taking shape.

It’s intended that the exciting amenity – open to people of all faiths or none at all and designed to bring together people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds – will be up and running by Spring 2007.

The centre will be located within the Sunday School building, next to the landmark Swan Bank Church in the centre

of Burslem, which is already used for a wide range of activities such as a mum and toddler group, homework clubs, aerobics sessions and activities for senior citizens.

Work is about to start on installing a lift in the building to provide access to the upper floors for those with disabilities and the elderly, and once more funding is in place that part of the building will be revamped to provide additional space for the community centre.

Glynis Cooper, Church Secretary and PA to the Minister, said: “The centre will reach out to individuals and groups from all religious, ethnic and cultural backgrounds as well as those with no apparent religious background.

“For instance we have already been asked to hold keep fit lessons for Muslim ladies. The centre will be an amenity for everyone and will help to promote harmony and understanding among the town’s multi-cultural community.

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■ Graphic designer Jason Conway pictured in his live/work unit in the new Queen Street development

An artist’s impression of the entrance to the new hospital.

£30m new hospital work set to start WORK on a £30 million redevelopment of Haywood Hospital is expected to start next April with completion scheduled by the end of 2009.

Health Minister Andy Burnham announced the goahead for the project which will create a state-of-the-art community health complex providing purpose-built facilities for people in the north of Stoke-on-Trent.

Following lengthy negotiations with the Department of Health, Treasury and Strategic Health Authority it has been agreed the scheme is affordable under the NHS Private Finance Initiative (PFI) Fit for the Future.

Mike Ridley, Chief Executive of North Stoke Primary Care Trust, said: “This decision will guarantee a community hospital of the highest quality at the Haywood and one of

which we can all be very proud.”

Trust Chairman Paul Warsop said: “We can look forward to a very exciting future for the Haywood as it will mean the very best healthcare will be provided for the area’s population. We will now be able to build on the excellent services already provided by the hospital staff.”

As well as having more than 160 in-patient beds, the new complex will incorporate community-based services.

Health and social care staff will work together to support people in their own homes and avoid the need for them to be admitted to hospital.

The new hospital will also have a five-bed palliative care unit, as well as specialist rheumatology and rehabilitation medicine and the current Walk-in Centre service.

How the new Haywood Hospital reception will look.

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■ The stylish new apartments in Federation Road.

Masterplan for town starts

to be a reality U

PDATES from the Burslem Regeneration Company show millions of pounds worth of hardearned funding, together with huge amounts of private sector investment, are changing the face of Burslem for the better.

A summary of progress in the town reports that, while for decades Burslem has been in the doldrums, the green shoots of recovery are starting to push through.

The catalyst for securing more than £20 million pounds of funding has been the North Staffordshire Regneration Zone who are continuing to work with partners to bring in further investment worth another £5.5 million in the short term.

These include a number of smaller schemes which will have a massive impact.

Major projects currently programmed, or already completed, include:

■ £4.4million to refurbish and adapt the indoor market for new uses – three detailed proposals will be submitted for a final decision in November.

■ £5.4million to repair and refurbish the Wedgwood Institute – the scheme includes expanding library facilities, creating gallery and conference space and providing units for small and medium businesses.

■ £3.9million Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) to repair and refurbish historic buildings in the Burslem Conservation Area – funding is set to be approved by the end of the year.

■ The £850,000 refurbishment of former shops at 7-11 Queen Street to provide new retail units and live/work

accommodation for creative businesses – the first tenants have moved in and are already networking and sharing business.

■ Another £850,000 to continue work to develop ‘Queen Street, the Creative Street’ by acquiring two more vacant properties, the former Cliffe’s Fashions shops at 13-15 Queen Street, to provide two retail workshops and six e-work units.

Smaller bids include proposals to improve key gateways to the town at Newcastle Street, Moorland Road and Hamil Road between the town and Vale Park.

An extra £250,000 has been allocated for two schemes by the North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone.

The old courthouse building in Moorland Road is to be converted into four enterprise units and properties lining

Newcastle Street are to be refurbished as part of the Shop Front Partnerships Improvement Scheme.

There are also plans to create a community cafe in the School of Art. Burslem Regeneration Company Director David Rogers, said: “You realise that lots of people are putting a lot of effort into trying to improve Burslem and we are starting to see it pay off with investment, the development of new homes and the creation of new business units. The town is changing, with the loss of traditional industries, but there is a great deal of hope and expectation now funds are being committed and projects delivered. The progress report shows much is being achieved, as well as highlighting our exciting plans for the future.”

Stoke-on-Trent’s Elected Mayor Mark Meredith said the City Council played a pivotal role in the Burslem Regeneration

■ Burslem Regeneration Company Director David Rogers assesses the ongoing improvements in the town.

Company – the public and private sector partnership formed to focus regeneration activity on the Mother Town.

He said the city had contributed to the initiative through the provision of a dedicated Programme manager to support activity in Burslem, as well as by commissioning the Burslem masterplan which forms the basis for a wide range of projects which are now underway to breathe new life into the community.

He said: “The city is also contributing up to £3 million to

support projects such as the refurbishment of the Grade 2* listed Wedgwood Institute.

“It has also been involved in the completion of 11 projects totalling £2.9 million and a further 16 projects under development with a value of £14 million.

“Clearly, regeneration of the Mother Town of the Potteries is a complex process; however, the City Council is committed to work with its partners to see Burslem emerge as a place in which people want to live, work and visit.”

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■ Graphic designer Jason Conway pictured in his live/work unit in the new Queen Street development

An artist’s impression of the entrance to the new hospital.

£30m new hospital work set to start WORK on a £30 million redevelopment of Haywood Hospital is expected to start next April with completion scheduled by the end of 2009.

Health Minister Andy Burnham announced the goahead for the project which will create a state-of-the-art community health complex providing purpose-built facilities for people in the north of Stoke-on-Trent.

Following lengthy negotiations with the Department of Health, Treasury and Strategic Health Authority it has been agreed the scheme is affordable under the NHS Private Finance Initiative (PFI) Fit for the Future.

Mike Ridley, Chief Executive of North Stoke Primary Care Trust, said: “This decision will guarantee a community hospital of the highest quality at the Haywood and one of

which we can all be very proud.”

Trust Chairman Paul Warsop said: “We can look forward to a very exciting future for the Haywood as it will mean the very best healthcare will be provided for the area’s population. We will now be able to build on the excellent services already provided by the hospital staff.”

As well as having more than 160 in-patient beds, the new complex will incorporate community-based services.

Health and social care staff will work together to support people in their own homes and avoid the need for them to be admitted to hospital.

The new hospital will also have a five-bed palliative care unit, as well as specialist rheumatology and rehabilitation medicine and the current Walk-in Centre service.

How the new Haywood Hospital reception will look.

6 THE ANGEL

■ The stylish new apartments in Federation Road.

Masterplan for town starts

to be a reality U

PDATES from the Burslem Regeneration Company show millions of pounds worth of hardearned funding, together with huge amounts of private sector investment, are changing the face of Burslem for the better.

A summary of progress in the town reports that, while for decades Burslem has been in the doldrums, the green shoots of recovery are starting to push through.

The catalyst for securing more than £20 million pounds of funding has been the North Staffordshire Regneration Zone who are continuing to work with partners to bring in further investment worth another £5.5 million in the short term.

These include a number of smaller schemes which will have a massive impact.

Major projects currently programmed, or already completed, include:

■ £4.4million to refurbish and adapt the indoor market for new uses – three detailed proposals will be submitted for a final decision in November.

■ £5.4million to repair and refurbish the Wedgwood Institute – the scheme includes expanding library facilities, creating gallery and conference space and providing units for small and medium businesses.

■ £3.9million Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) to repair and refurbish historic buildings in the Burslem Conservation Area – funding is set to be approved by the end of the year.

■ The £850,000 refurbishment of former shops at 7-11 Queen Street to provide new retail units and live/work

accommodation for creative businesses – the first tenants have moved in and are already networking and sharing business.

■ Another £850,000 to continue work to develop ‘Queen Street, the Creative Street’ by acquiring two more vacant properties, the former Cliffe’s Fashions shops at 13-15 Queen Street, to provide two retail workshops and six e-work units.

Smaller bids include proposals to improve key gateways to the town at Newcastle Street, Moorland Road and Hamil Road between the town and Vale Park.

An extra £250,000 has been allocated for two schemes by the North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone.

The old courthouse building in Moorland Road is to be converted into four enterprise units and properties lining

Newcastle Street are to be refurbished as part of the Shop Front Partnerships Improvement Scheme.

There are also plans to create a community cafe in the School of Art. Burslem Regeneration Company Director David Rogers, said: “You realise that lots of people are putting a lot of effort into trying to improve Burslem and we are starting to see it pay off with investment, the development of new homes and the creation of new business units. The town is changing, with the loss of traditional industries, but there is a great deal of hope and expectation now funds are being committed and projects delivered. The progress report shows much is being achieved, as well as highlighting our exciting plans for the future.”

Stoke-on-Trent’s Elected Mayor Mark Meredith said the City Council played a pivotal role in the Burslem Regeneration

■ Burslem Regeneration Company Director David Rogers assesses the ongoing improvements in the town.

Company – the public and private sector partnership formed to focus regeneration activity on the Mother Town.

He said the city had contributed to the initiative through the provision of a dedicated Programme manager to support activity in Burslem, as well as by commissioning the Burslem masterplan which forms the basis for a wide range of projects which are now underway to breathe new life into the community.

He said: “The city is also contributing up to £3 million to

support projects such as the refurbishment of the Grade 2* listed Wedgwood Institute.

“It has also been involved in the completion of 11 projects totalling £2.9 million and a further 16 projects under development with a value of £14 million.

“Clearly, regeneration of the Mother Town of the Potteries is a complex process; however, the City Council is committed to work with its partners to see Burslem emerge as a place in which people want to live, work and visit.”

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Hi-tech support NORTH Staffordshire Regeneration Zone has launched a project to increase use of broadband internet facilities by companies in the area.

Support is available to solvent, trading, small to medium-sized businesses who either have no access to broadband, or do not use their broadband link to its full potential.

Successful applicants will need to subscribe to a recognised broadband service and present a clear business plan showing how they could successfully utilise e-commerce.

Anyone who wants to find out more should contact advisers at the Business Innovation Centre on 01785 226598.

Cash bid for piazza SUBTERRANEAN toilets at the end of Queen Street could make way for a stylish new piazza if a bid for special funding succeeds.

The disused toilets, installed in 1936, could be filled and the whole area repaved.

Historian Fred Hughes said: “The toilets have served their purpose. A stylish piazza would really improve the area around Swan Bank and Queen Street.”

Police history POLICE memorabilia from Burslem dating back to Victorian times is going on show in the town this month (October).

The exhibition runs for two weeks at the School of Art in Queen Street, after first going on show at the annual dinner of the Burslem Association for the Prosecution of Felons.

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A team of brave rescue workers who toiled for days in aftermath of the 1942 Sneyd Pit disaster.

Town’s memorial to Sneyd Pit disaster set to be unveiled...

65 years to the day A

MEMORIAL to 57 miners who lost their lives in the Sneyd Colliery disaster of 1942 is set to be unveiled in Burslem town centre on January 1st – 65 years to the day the tragedy happened.

The memorial, which comprises a 6ft diameter pit wheel set on a plinth, will be built outside Ceramica in Scotia Road, facing the Queen’s Theatre.

On the plinth will be two plaques – one listing the names of the victims and another paying tribute to brave rescue teams who risked their lives to save others and recover the bodies.

In 1942 miners at Sneyd Pit broke an old superstition about working on New Year’s Day because of the need for more coal to support the war effort.

At 7.50am that day a massive explosion ripped through the mine 800 yards below ground at Burslem. Rescuers worked for eight days in dangerous conditions to recover all the bodies while relatives waited anxiously for news at the pit head.

Former miner Keith Meeson, who has led the campaign for the lasting memorial, said: “Most of the miners killed were from the Burslem area and I know this means a lot to their relatives who are alive today.

“The miners went to work on that ill-fated New

Year’s Day to support the war effort and they were carrying out their patriotic duty just as much as soldiers killed in the front-line.

“A tribute to their memory is long-overdue – and this will make sure that future generations will not forget the men who died in the terrible disaster.”

Keith, who is Chairman of the Apedale Mining Heritage Centre, said planning permission for the memorial had been granted and work would be able to start soon.

He thanked four local companies for their support for the project – Hulme, Upright and Manning architects, Nettlebank Memorial, Stokeon-Trent Housing Association and Johnson Walsh shotblasters.

“It would be fitting to be able to unveil the memorial on New Year’s Day – and we are hopeful everything will be ready for then,” added Keith.

Eighty-year-old Mrs Agnes Burgess, whose father James Bennett and brother Robert were both killed in the disaster, has campaigned for the memorial.

She said: “This means a lot to me and other relatives of those 57 miners who lost their lives.

They are finally getting recognition for the sacrifice they made for their country. The unveiling will be a very emotional day for us.”

TAKE a walking tour of Burslem town centre if you want to see real evidence of regeneration at work, says MARK ABRAMS, (pictured) Partnerships Director at regional development agency Advantage West Midlands

Aiming to put back

the buzz B

URSLEM is to earn itself a reputation as the creative quarter of Stoke-on-Trent thanks to a string of development projects which are breathing new life into buildings, triggering business growth after years of decline, and boosting the confidence and aspirations of young and old alike in the surrounding community.

When I took on the role as AWM’s Partnerships Director for Staffordshire this year, Burslem was one of the first places I was invited to visit as part of a factfinding tour of key regeneration projects in the area – and it made a memorable, yet sad impression.

As the most historic of the six towns in the Potteries, it is looking like a poor reflection of its past glory. However, I was excited by the opportunity, and I have been spurred on by the prospect of being able to make real and positive change.

As one of AWM’s highest priorities for regeneration in the entire region, some of its finest buildings have undergone sensitive restorations and

refurbishments with the help of our funding through the North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone.

The Ceramica visitor centre and Burslem School of Art building were two early success stories and a sign of things to come.

Shops at 22-30 Queen Street were converted into studio workspace and a Victorian building at 7-11 Queen Street has been transformed into modern live/work units, providing an inspirational environment for young entrepreneurs to thrive in.

Shop fronts in the town are being restored to their former splendour, with the help of vintage photographs, as part of the Townscape heritage initiative, the Grade II-listed Wedgwood Institute is to be refurbished, adding extra library

Refurbishment of Burslem’s famous School of Art – funded with the help of AWM – is an early success story. space and enterprise units for SMEs. The revival of Burslem’s indoor market is another project in the pipeline.

Some of Burslem’s past has disappeared for ever with the demolition of ceramic factories, but in their place are bright, modern and eye-catching private-sector housing developments, around 600

homes that will be instrumental in creating a new community and boosting economic prosperity in the area.

Funding from Advantage West Midlands has been the catalyst in kick-starting these projects – and thanks to the hard and dedicated work of AWM staff and our public sector partners, Burslem will once again buzz.

Grants are available to improve home heating GRANTS that could bring many low-income homes in Burslem in from the cold are going unclaimed.

Warm Front Grants are available to improve the living conditions of vulnerable people living in cold, damp and energy inefficient houses.

However, gas and building specialists BGC have identified that hundreds of local people are missing out on what they are entitled to because they do not realise they are eligible for the Government funding of up to £2,700 to install a central heating system or home insulation.

Burslem-based BGC has been approved by

the Eaga Partnership Ltd – the body which manages Government energy initiatives across the country – as contractors to carry out the installation of gas heating systems under the Warm Front scheme.

Stoke-on-Trent North MP Joan Walley has urged people in Burslem to take up the grants to which they are entitled.

She said: “Extra money is available to help people make their homes warm and energy efficient. I advise anyone who is eligible to find out how they can benefit and take up the grants.”

The grant could meet the cost of installing a combination boiler that heats radiators

and provides constant hot water, up to five radiators and all valves and pipework.

A Warm Front Grant can also be used to repair an existing system, upgrade a boiler or install a highly efficient condensing boiler.

Insulation measures including loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and draught proofing may also be available to qualifying households.

To find out if you qualify simply called BGC on 0800 043 0345.

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On the beat – Inspector Jim Wood, centre, and PCSO Krishnadas Suicumaran chat to pensioner Jean Frost in Burslem town centre.

Working together for safer

neighbourhoods N

EW neighbourhood policing arrangements are helping make Burslem a safer place to live and work. Teams of officers have been assigned to cover communities in and around the town, getting to know the public and any problems they face.

Residents can easily contact their local officer and leave important messages which keep them up to date with life in the community.

It’s already a winning formula in areas like Middleport, Cobridge and Burslem Town Centre, where increased contact between neighbourhood police officers and the public is boosting public confidence, increasing safety and fighting crime.

Statistics show significant reductions in burglaries and vehicle crime over the last few years, and police chiefs are urging the public to carry on playing their part in continuing the trend.

Sgt Paul Clarke said significant improvements had also been made in using anti-social behaviour orders to all but banish street prostitutes from the area.

He said: “We put in a great deal of hard work to make sure the results were right and, with the backing of the courts, our 10 T H E A N G E L

efforts have made a real difference.

“There was a time when there was a prostitute on every street corner. Now they have largely moved on, and that’s good news for residents.

“Everyone can help us to continue the good work in fighting crime, by reporting crimes and information they have on criminal activity, by working with our officers in their communities, and by common sense action like avoiding leaving valuables in their cars.”

Inspector Jim Wood, the commander of the Western Neighbourhood Policing Unit which includes Burslem, said: “The local bobby on the beat has become a much more common sight to many residents as a result of neighbourhood policing.

“Officers and Police Community Support Officers are working to build strong links which are helping them to work alongside the community to tackle the issues that matter most.”

straight through to his/her radio. For example, to speak to an officer with collar number 4321, follow these simple steps: ■ Dial 08453 30 31 32 ■ Listen to the instructions and when prompted dial the five digit code, putting a zero before the officer’s number (04321) ■ A recorded message will say ‘state your name so the call can be announced’ ■ Just say your name so the officer knows who is calling.

If the officer is on duty their radio will ring like a mobile phone and you’ll be connected. If he/she is off duty or dealing with victims, witnesses or offenders your call will be directed to the officer’s voicemail box. Officers numbers covering Burslem and surrounding areas are:

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR LOCAL POLICE OFFICER

BURSLEM AND SNEYD GREEN WEST: PC 0896 Tracy Adams and PCSO 6440 Wendy Rigby.

By dialling 08453 30 31 32 and entering ‘0’ then the four digit collar number of the officer you want to speak to, you’ll be put

LONGPORT AND MIDDLEPORT: PC 3260 Karl Lee, PC 4368 Andy Graham and PCSO 6615 Matt Savage.

Buyers snap up

new homes T

HE first homes to be built at Sadlers Park in Burslem have been snapped up by buyers. All 122 appartments at Federation Road have been sold – as have all but two of the 20 town houses and semi detached properties off Westport Road.

Now developers Countryside Properties are ploughing ahead with a second phase of 26 houses and 42 apartments which promotes stylish urban living for families, couples and single people.

“People are catching on that Burslem is going to be a great place to live again and Sadlers Park is helping to transform the town,” said Michaela Lancaster, Sales Director for Countryside Properties.

“Once our show homes were open and people could see and get the feel for what this development is about, sales have gone

Creating an environment for stylish urban living – a landscaped garden feature at Sadlers Park better than expected and there is growing demand.”

Apartments – which vary is size and specification – have been sold for prices from £105,000 up to £170,000 and the houses from £145,000 to £184,000.

An artist’s impression of how the Market Place phase of Sadlers Park might look.

Countryside are looking to start work on the Market Place phase of the scheme early in the New Year.

“These homes will be a different design which will further develop the stylish urban living environment and have a major impact on the town.”

The progress of Sadlers Park has been welcomed by Stoke-on-Trent North MP Joan Walley who worked with Countryside Properties and the City Council at the planning stage.

Joan, who is a Director of Burslem Regeneration Company, said: “The regeneration of Burslem is moving from the drawing board to the building of real quality homes which are crucially bringing people back to the town.”

Proposals for arts and crafts showcase LOCAL arts and crafts will be boosted by their own showcase in the Mother Town if a bid for funding is successful.

The people behind the successful Burslem Arts Festival are to apply for charitable funding to turn one of the refurbished studio units in Queen Street into an outlet.

It would provide a prime town centre site to exhibit and offer for sale a wide range of work of artists from a 20-mile radius in North Staffordshire and South Cheshire.

The outlet would be used to promote

paintings, drawings, jewellery, ceramics and other work of talented people in the area.

It is hoped that the project will be up and running in time for the next Burslem Arts Festival on Saturday, December 9 this year.

Amanda Bromley, a member of the Burslem Arts Festival Group, who runs her own successful Jellifish internet services business in one of the other refurbished studio workplaces in Queen Street, said: “We are looking at the feasability of

being awarded charitable status for this project.

“The outlet would support arts and crafts from the area and it would be fitting for it to be located in Burslem in view of the town’s proud creative tradition and the massive amount of talent we have in the area.

“The facility would be close to the Burslem School of Art, which is one of partners in the project and will exhibit some of the arts and crafts – particularly the larger items which would need more space.”

T H E A N G E L 11

Vale’s club is a winner

Group Leader Colin Greatbatch with scouts and cubs in their refurbished headquarters.

Scout group salutes

HQ revamp T

HE 67th Burslem Scout Group has given their building a new lease of life – thanks to a £11,000 grant from the Co-op.

The money was used to transform the run down premises in Baddeley Street with a new roof, double -glazed windows and a new fitted kitchen. The building was also painted and decorated and the floor was sanded and re-waxed.

More than 50 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorer Scouts together with their 12 leaders

Give us your views PLEASE let us know about your views, ideas and initiatives by telephoning the regeneration company office on

01782 822935 or write to Project Co-ordinator Kevin Birks at Burslem Regeneration Company, Unit 5, School of Art, Queen Street, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 3EJ.

meet twice a week in the building which they also use for other activities such as rehearsals for the Scout shows, “Burdi-Boys” and “Screamline.”

Now the building is available for other groups in the community to hire for activities such as keep fit classes, parties or dance troupes etc.

Scout Group Leader Colin Greatbatch said: “The building was in need of repair, but the local area Scouts Association was no longer able to fund the maintenance of the premises.

“Funding from the Co-op has helped us carry out the necessary repairs. Now we have to meet running costs of about £3,500 a year and bookings from other groups in the town would help us to meet this expense.”

To inquire about booking the scout hall call Colin on 01782 852254 or mobile 07799 530718.

Meeting nights are: Cub Scouts (aged 8 years to 10 and a half ) Wednesday 6.15pm to 7.45pm; Scouts (10 and a half to 14) Wednesday 8pm to 9.30pm; Beaver Scouts (6 to 8) Thursday 6pm to 7.30pm; Explorer Scouts (14 to 18) Thursday 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

PORT VALE’S out-of-school club has scored another success after receiving a coveted quality assurance award.

Boomer’s Club – named after Vale’s popular doggy mascot Boomer (pictured) – provides multi-sport based activities for eight to 14-year-olds during the school holidays.

Based at the Valiants’ community building in Hamil Road, Burslem, the club has proved a winner with both youngsters and parents by providing a stimulating mix of sport, day trips and computer tuition.

Now, after being assessed by City Council experts during the Summer the club has been been given Level One Aiming Higher accreditation which carries Investor in Children Status.

Jim Cooper, Manager of Vale’s Football in the Community Scheme, said: “We are very pleased to have achieved this status which is reward for the hard work that has gone into making the club a quality facility.

“Boomer’s Club provides a much needed service for parents in the Burslem area and this award will help the club go from strength to strength – it’s enough to make Boomer’s tail wag with delight!”

Jim revealed that he is also looking at the possibility of launching before school and after school clubs during term time if there is sufficient demand.

Boomer’s Club is one of the latest stories of Vale’s muchacclaimed community activities which are regarded among the best in English football.

The Angel is produced on behalf of Burslem Regeneration Company by Smith Davis Press