The Angel – Issue 9, Autumn 2008

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the

ANGEL

AN UPDATE ON BURSLEM REGENERATION PROGRESS ISSUE 9 Autumn 2008

New homes

shape future Hundreds move in as Mother Town moves on

Pages 8-9

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Plenty is happening to ensure progress

By Hugh Edwards Chairman of The Burslem Regeneration Company

PEOPLE who ask whether anything is happening in Burslem prefer to ignore the new housing and the on-going work in public areas familiar to the town’s pedestrians.

The impact of the credit crunch does make the world a bleaker place with new, but empty, houses looking for owners. The important point is that behind the scenes a great deal is happening.

The jigsaw of land leading to the extension of the Burslem bypass is well underway; the Mother Town Masterplan has been updated and approved; and schemes for the Wedgwood Institute and the town centre including the indoor market are being put together.

Despite the credit crunch, new work is underway and the new board of the Burslem Regeneration Company has started to shoulder its responsibilities.

It can be a long and difficult process to apply for grants for public projects to improve the environment for local residents, but we shall succeed. Nothing ever happens unless you make it happen. The new houses will sell and further houses will be built. Burslem is alive – whatever the cynics may say.

Moorcroft is about to unveil record profits and tourism continues to thrive.

Burslem is a great place to live and to work and I am certain that together we shall reach our goals.

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Plans drawn up to

finish bypass A

PLAN to extend the Burslem bypass from Nile Street to Moorland Road will be drawn up by the end of the year.

City council highways engineers are currently looking at all the options to complete the bypass which starts in Newcastle Street.

The new road would take hundreds of vehicles a day out of Burslem town centre, reducing pressure on busy road junctions and enabling further environmental improvements to be carried out.

Group Manager (Highways Development) Steve Davenport said there was a window of opportunity to deliver the scheme and a number of options were being assessed. He said it was most likely the new road would run from Nile Street up Hobson Street, around the periphery of the former Royal Doulton site and across to Moorland Road.

He added: “We have talked to developers St Modwen who own the former Doulton site and will

be discussing the issue with other land owners and will be looking to make a proposal to city councillors by the end of the year.

“Completing the bypass would be a great help to Burslem town centre, providing traffic with an alernative means of travelling from Moorland Road to Newcastle Street.

“It would allow us to continue to improve the pedestrian environment in the town centre.”

Burslem North Councillor Joy Garner, the city council’s portfolio holder for the environment, said the completion of the bypass would be a “muchneeded improvement for the town.”

She said: “It will reduce traffic congestion, cleaning up the air in the town centre and allow visitors to enjoy Burslem. There are lots of new shops in Burslem town centre and taking the traffic out will make it a better experience for everyone using them.”

Joy Garner, Burslem North City Councillor and a Director of the Regeneration Company, pictured at Hobson Street – a likely route for the final stretch of the town’s bypass.

Factory site clearance work underway WORK has started on demolishing the former Royal Doulton factory site at Nile Street, Burslem, to make way for an exciting development that will bring new homes and jobs to the heart of the Mother Town.

Developers St Modwen Properties have been granted planning approval by the city council for the project that will incorporate around 140 new homes and more than 50

business units on the prime 11-acre site. While most of the factory will be demolished, St Modwen will restore the original main Royal Doulton building in Nile Street to mark Burslem’s proud heritage as the centre of North Staffordshire’s world renowned ceramics industry.

St Modwen Regional Director Mike Herbert said: “The current climate in the housing market and wider economy means we

are unable to say when building will commence. However, St Modwen is firmly committed to the project and its contribution to the regeneration of Burslem.

We will start to move forward as soon as there is a change in the economic climate.

“Meanwhile, we are currently demolishing the factory and securing the site so it will be both safe and ready for when building work commences.”

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£40m college rebuild is

world-class M

ORE than £40m of Government funding has been approved to rebuild Stoke on Trent College’s Burslem Campus as one of the UK’s most modern higher education facilities.

The Government’s Learning and Skills Council gave the green light to the scheme, which will also see extensive new buildings at the Cauldon Campus in Shelton.

The redevelopment of Burslem campus has already started with the opening of the John Seddon Building Technology Centre. Now the scene is set for the site to be cleared, and rebuilt in 21st century style with an open pedestrian space linking a series of individual buildings within an eco-friendly traffic-free environment.

A striking signature building fronting onto Moorland Road is being planned to provide one of

Stoke-on-Trent’s most modern pieces of architecture.

Architect Aidan Ridyard explained: “It is our ambition to make this a landmark building of which the whole community can be proud. The entire development will form relatively low-rise buildings. The narrow building depths maximise daylight and ventilation efficiencies.”

A detailed planning application for the works will be submitted to Stoke-on-Trent City Council in early 2009, with work expected to start in early 2010 for completion in 2013.

College Principal Graham Moore said: “The LSC’s decision secures the funding we require to move ahead with this exciting opportunity for Stoke-on-Trent.

“The campus developments offer both the learning and wider communities once in a lifetime investment to improve life opportunities for all. The

renewal will be sympathetic to the locations in which they are sited, while adding something new and inspiring to the local landscapes.

“Sustainable technologies and construction practices will feature throughout the new campuses, minimising our carbon footprint and delivering intelligent buildings that contribute positively to the college’s ongoing operating efficiencies.”

Patrick Wenger, Chair of the college’s Board of Governors, said: “New world class facilities will support key areas of the local and regional economy by delivering high quality skills training in health and social care, construction and business and professional services. This reinforces a picture of a college fighting fit to provide our community with the skills needed to compete in the 21st century.”

An artist’s impression showing how the new Burslem campus will look – with Moorland Road at the top right.

Continental piazza work progressing THE £268,000 project to transform Swan Square into a Continental-style piazza is due to be completed in October. Improvements to the important gateway to the Mother Town include a gravel terrace and sandstone features, creating a 21st century public space.

The original iron railings that used to surround the demolished subterranean toilet will be re-used and re-painted to form a barrier between the seating area and traffic making deliveries to nearby business premises. The public will have access to the new-look Swan Square when work has finished, and there will an official opening at a later date.

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Bringing service to the people – pictured at the Middleport Community Hub, left to right, Senior JET Adviser Kay Fryer, JET Adviser Steve Dunn, JET client Vanessa Briggs and Midland Heart Regeneration Manager John Webbe.

Wise job s eeke rs joi E n MPLOYMENT and training opportunities have been significantly boosted with the opening of a new community-based jobs, enterprise and training centre (JET) in Burslem.

The JET centre – hosted in Burslem by Groundwork Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, on behalf of Stoke-on-Trent City Council – is a base for local people to access services and support to assist them on their journey back into employment.

People seeking work and training can take advantage of the expert support and services on offer, including access to training courses such as literacy and numeracy, CV writing and interview techniques and work experience opportunities.

The scheme is also able to tap into the expertise of a wide range of JET partner organisations, including the City Council, JobCentre Plus, the Learning and Skills Council, Stoke on Trent College, Connexions, the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, North Staffordshire YMCA and Touchstone Housing Association.

There is also JET Business, based in Hanley, an Employer Hub, working with local employers to source local vacancies for JET clients.

The JET centre, one of three now up and running in Stoke-on-Trent, is based at Groundwork’s Albany 4 THE ANGEL

the JET set House headquarters on Moorland Road. However, the services they provide will be offered from local community facilities bringing them even closer to the people they are aimed at.

There will be a JET outreach centre in Burslem Town centre as well as from Touchstone Housing’s offices in Middleport, and Port Vale Children’s Centre.

Julia Barraclough, Education and Training Manager for Groundwork Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, said: “JET is unique because it is a community-faced project.

“People do not have to come to Groundwork’s office to access these services – they will be available from community hubs throughout the Burslem area literally providing the service in their neighbourhood.

“Clients who are referred to JET are given a broad range of training with the aim of helping them find work.

“Firstly we work with them to gauge what their aspirations are, before referring them to different organisations such as the YMCA for confidence building and one-to-one support.

“Then they have the

Julia Barraclough, Education and Training Manager for Groundwork. opportunity to access training courses, brush up on literacy and numeracy if required and take part in work experience placements.

“We are also working closely with GP surgeries and engaging

other agencies to provide as well a rounded level of support for clients as possible.”

For more information on the Burslem JET call 829911.

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All set to turn dream

into reality T

HE vision of a dramatically improved town centre for Burslem is soon to be unveiled. Exciting new proposals in a masterplan aimed at revamping the heart of the Mother Town and breathing new cultural and economic life into the area will be revealed in a series of consultation events in November by the board of the re-constituted Burslem Regeneration Company.

The masterplan takes in suggestions made by previous strategies and also introduces fresh recommendations to attract new businesses and investment, create new jobs, work towards developing a sustainable community, redevelop Brownfield land and maximise the cultural and natural assets of the town centre.

Original proposals were reviewed by architectural town planners HypoStyle who were commissioned by Burslem Regeneration Company to look at all aspects of regenerating the town centre.

flow through the town and pedestrian access. ● Attracting new businesses and boosting tourism. ● Encouraging investment in economic growth. ● Developing public services – such as provision of healthcare facilities, support for unemployed people and promoting sporting and cultural activities like the concept of a Sports Village.

Regeneration Manager Julian Read will unveil details of the new masterplan for Burslem It is hoped that work will start on turning the dream into a reality as early as next year – and it’s estimated that the ambitious programme will be completed by 2016.

The business and delivery plan looks at four key areas: ● Accessibility and movement – improving traffic

The business and delivery plan also includes proposals for improving the town centre’s landmark buildings such as Ceramica, the indoor market, Wedgwood Institute and Queen’s Theatre.

Julian Read, Burslem Regeneration Manager, said: “The business and delivery plan will build on the previous masterplanning work. Once it has been approved by regeneration partners we will look to implement the proposal, making Burslem town centre the vibrant, attractive and prosperous place that it should be.”

Things are looking up...

MEMBERS of the new board of the Burslem Regeneration Company are, left to right back row, Jon Cotgreave, Edmund Yorke, Amanda Bromley, middle row, Joy Garner, Joan Walley, Pamela Malleleiu, David Rogers, front row, Rev Ashley Cooper and Mark Rizk. The Board Chairman Hugh Edwards was unable to attend the photo-call.

Victorian theme for Christmas festivities BURSLEM will turn back the clock for this year’s Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair which will have a Victorian theme.

Queen Street will be transformed into a festive Dickensian scene on Saturday, December 6 with stallholders in period costume, carol singing, a hog roast and shop windows decorated in the style of the era.

Visitors will be invited to try their hand at one of the arts and crafts workshops, while there will be plenty of free entertainment for children of all ages, such as live music, Victorian street games and storytellers with tales of Christmases past.

Other attractions will include guided tours by local historians – and a seasonal ghost hunt at The Leopard, North Staffordshire’s most haunted public house.

Julie Gould, Joint Vice-Chair of the Burslem Arts Festival Group, said: “This will be the biggest Burslem Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair so far, with something for all the family.

“The style of the architecture in Burslem town centre is an ideal setting in which to create a Victorian theme.”

The fair runs from 11am until 4pm. The organisers are looking for volunteers to help on the big day. If you would like to help please let Julie know by phoning 07971 272059 or email her on jag.artmaju@btinternet. com

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Clear vision for the future includes continued investment and construction projects to improve Middleport for community

Expert design team to plan

An artist’s impression showing how the historic flour mill will look after the conversion to apartments.

the next phase T

HE Building Design Partnership (BDP) has been set up to prepare a detailed masterplan for the next phase of improvement work in Middleport.

Housing regeneration body RENEW has appointed the expert panel to carry out a six-month consultation and feasibility study to pave the way for the latest wave of improvements.

The next phase of work will be centred on the Newport Lane, Slater Street and Maddock Street area and will be primarily residential. The site of the former Wood and Sons Stanley Pottery in Newport Lane will also be redeveloped.

As well as repair and renovation of existing properties, other types of projects will include creating improved on and off street parking, traffic calming measures and the development of open spaces to boost the sense of community.

RENEW is also working with Staffordshire Police to curb anti-social behaviour by targeting empty or derelict properties, and are close to identifying a site for a new police post to house neighbourhood officers.

Derelict canalside flour mill set to be converted into luxury homes A SCHEME to convert a derelict 19th Century flour mill at Middleport into luxury apartments has been given planning approval.

Burslem-based developers Chris Shaw Properties want to renovate the canalside Port Vale Mill, which has been dilapidated for over two decades, to create 14 two-bedroom and three-bedroom flats. Plans also include nine new courtyard-style two-bedroom houses and two new apartments off Milvale Street, Architect Pat Redmond said the renovation design was in sympathy with the historic flour mill, built in 1844, and its location in the Trent and Mersey Canal conservation area.

“We have worked closely with city council conservation officers in drawing up the design for the development which is aimed at providing aspirational homes for young single people and families,” said Mr Redmond of Leek-based CTD Architects. “We are expecting to start construction work next year.”

RENEW Development Manager Harmesh Jassal said: “The flour mill plan is a quality scheme and shows private sector confidence in the regeneration of Middleport.”

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Welcome to the Middleport Community Hub – Jackie Grant, top, Midland Heart Regeneration Project Officer, and Heather Kuduk, RENEW Programme Officer.

Developer Chris Shaw pictured at the canalside by the derelict flour mill.

Meanwhile, Chris Shaw Properties have made another planning application to build 16 flats and three houses on the site of a flint grinding works,

adjacent to the flour mill. The proposal would include conversion of the canalside works for the houses and two flats.

RENEW Development Manager Harmesh Jassal, right, and Pochin Homes Managing Director John Coupland pictured at the former site of the Wood and Sons Stanley Pottery where it is planned to build affordable, quality homes.

RENEW Development Manager Harmesh Jassal said: “This is a significant step forward because Building Design partnership will be producing a clear and detailed vision

for the future of Middleport. This will be a precursor to actual planning applications for the work to be carried out.

“BDP will be taking on board all the consultations that have taken place up until now and be looking at everything from housing to transport and transforming public spaces.

“Public involvement is essential and there will be plenty of chances to view the plans the partnership come up with and for people to have their say and shape these designs.

“Repairs and renovations will be carried out where possible and appropriate, and the overall scheme is about

enhancing the area and bringing the Middleport community closer together.”

RENEW has already spent more than £400,000 in the Middleport area and the investment is making a tangible difference.

Communities in Ellgreave Street and Lyndhurst Street have already benefited from the first phase of improvements which have included housing improvements as well as traffic calming measures.

Mr Jassal added: “Residents should take a look at the work carried out in places like Ellgreave Street as this is indicative of the kind of improvements we want to continue to build on through the next phase of work where appropriate.”

Scores of properties improved SCORES of houses in Middleport have already benefited from improvements carried out by RENEW. Throughout the spring and summer, a £1.1 million project has transformed older properties in the area.

More than 70 homes in Newport Street, Ellgreave Street, Sant Street, St Paul’s Street, Church Square and Globe Street have benefited from a raft of improvements.

These have included repairing and replacing front windows, doors, roofs and guttering, boundary walls and gates, and the re-pointing and repainting of masonry.

The work has been carried out by RENEW North Staffordshire’s lead partners – Midland Heart housing association and JS Seddon contractors – and has gone down very well with residents.

Barry Thompson, of JS Seddon, said: “It is great that the residents are delighted with the improvements to their homes and it’s great to be able to deliver a project that meets the needs of the community.”

New £2m GP practice WORK on a new £2million GP practice to serve Middleport is expected to start next year.

Stoke-on-Trent PCT has made a planning application to build the centre on land in Duncalf Street and is carrying out a feasibility study on an alternative location on the site of a former primary school in Moreton Street.

Four GPs and three practice nurses will be based in the complex to provide care for 6,000 patients.

A spokesman for the PCT said: “If the Moreton Street site is feasible we will submit a planning application and then local people will be able to give their views on their preferred site of the two.”

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25/9/08

17:03

Page 1

Clear vision for the future includes continued investment and construction projects to improve Middleport for community

Expert design team to plan

An artist’s impression showing how the historic flour mill will look after the conversion to apartments.

the next phase T

HE Building Design Partnership (BDP) has been set up to prepare a detailed masterplan for the next phase of improvement work in Middleport.

Housing regeneration body RENEW has appointed the expert panel to carry out a six-month consultation and feasibility study to pave the way for the latest wave of improvements.

The next phase of work will be centred on the Newport Lane, Slater Street and Maddock Street area and will be primarily residential. The site of the former Wood and Sons Stanley Pottery in Newport Lane will also be redeveloped.

As well as repair and renovation of existing properties, other types of projects will include creating improved on and off street parking, traffic calming measures and the development of open spaces to boost the sense of community.

RENEW is also working with Staffordshire Police to curb anti-social behaviour by targeting empty or derelict properties, and are close to identifying a site for a new police post to house neighbourhood officers.

Derelict canalside flour mill set to be converted into luxury homes A SCHEME to convert a derelict 19th Century flour mill at Middleport into luxury apartments has been given planning approval.

Burslem-based developers Chris Shaw Properties want to renovate the canalside Port Vale Mill, which has been dilapidated for over two decades, to create 14 two-bedroom and three-bedroom flats. Plans also include nine new courtyard-style two-bedroom houses and two new apartments off Milvale Street, Architect Pat Redmond said the renovation design was in sympathy with the historic flour mill, built in 1844, and its location in the Trent and Mersey Canal conservation area.

“We have worked closely with city council conservation officers in drawing up the design for the development which is aimed at providing aspirational homes for young single people and families,” said Mr Redmond of Leek-based CTD Architects. “We are expecting to start construction work next year.”

RENEW Development Manager Harmesh Jassal said: “The flour mill plan is a quality scheme and shows private sector confidence in the regeneration of Middleport.”

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THE ANGEL

Welcome to the Middleport Community Hub – Jackie Grant, top, Midland Heart Regeneration Project Officer, and Heather Kuduk, RENEW Programme Officer.

Developer Chris Shaw pictured at the canalside by the derelict flour mill.

Meanwhile, Chris Shaw Properties have made another planning application to build 16 flats and three houses on the site of a flint grinding works,

adjacent to the flour mill. The proposal would include conversion of the canalside works for the houses and two flats.

RENEW Development Manager Harmesh Jassal, right, and Pochin Homes Managing Director John Coupland pictured at the former site of the Wood and Sons Stanley Pottery where it is planned to build affordable, quality homes.

RENEW Development Manager Harmesh Jassal said: “This is a significant step forward because Building Design partnership will be producing a clear and detailed vision

for the future of Middleport. This will be a precursor to actual planning applications for the work to be carried out.

“BDP will be taking on board all the consultations that have taken place up until now and be looking at everything from housing to transport and transforming public spaces.

“Public involvement is essential and there will be plenty of chances to view the plans the partnership come up with and for people to have their say and shape these designs.

“Repairs and renovations will be carried out where possible and appropriate, and the overall scheme is about

enhancing the area and bringing the Middleport community closer together.”

RENEW has already spent more than £400,000 in the Middleport area and the investment is making a tangible difference.

Communities in Ellgreave Street and Lyndhurst Street have already benefited from the first phase of improvements which have included housing improvements as well as traffic calming measures.

Mr Jassal added: “Residents should take a look at the work carried out in places like Ellgreave Street as this is indicative of the kind of improvements we want to continue to build on through the next phase of work where appropriate.”

Scores of properties improved SCORES of houses in Middleport have already benefited from improvements carried out by RENEW. Throughout the spring and summer, a £1.1 million project has transformed older properties in the area.

More than 70 homes in Newport Street, Ellgreave Street, Sant Street, St Paul’s Street, Church Square and Globe Street have benefited from a raft of improvements.

These have included repairing and replacing front windows, doors, roofs and guttering, boundary walls and gates, and the re-pointing and repainting of masonry.

The work has been carried out by RENEW North Staffordshire’s lead partners – Midland Heart housing association and JS Seddon contractors – and has gone down very well with residents.

Barry Thompson, of JS Seddon, said: “It is great that the residents are delighted with the improvements to their homes and it’s great to be able to deliver a project that meets the needs of the community.”

New £2m GP practice WORK on a new £2million GP practice to serve Middleport is expected to start next year.

Stoke-on-Trent PCT has made a planning application to build the centre on land in Duncalf Street and is carrying out a feasibility study on an alternative location on the site of a former primary school in Moreton Street.

Four GPs and three practice nurses will be based in the complex to provide care for 6,000 patients.

A spokesman for the PCT said: “If the Moreton Street site is feasible we will submit a planning application and then local people will be able to give their views on their preferred site of the two.”

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Sadlers Park is having positive impact COMPLETION of the housing scheme which will change the face of Burslem town centre is moving closer as more and more residents are making homes in the latest phase of the development.

Phase three of the Sadlers Park complex is currently being marketed and attracting healthy interest. As The Angel went to press, six of the latest batch of 46 properties released for sale had been snapped up.

So far, a lively mix of families, couples and single people have moved into the development, which combines townhouses and apartments in attractive landscaping with neat communal gardens and scupltures. When it is eventually completed, Sadlers Park will see 421 homes on the sites of the former Wade and Sadlers pottery factories.

Once sales of phase three are complete developer Countryside Properties will build a further 96 apartments before completing the site, which cuts a swathe around the town centre, from Newcastle Street to Market Square.

The final piece of the jigsaw will see two shops fronting onto the square opposite Ceramica, and forming a gateway to the Sadlers Park development.

Countryside Properties Regional Sales Director Martin Leggett said: “We have now started the fourth and final phase of building and can see the positive impact this development is having on this charming, historic town. It has been an exciting project for all involved but there’s a lot still to come.”

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THE ANGEL

Homes and people breathe

new life in town H

UNDREDS of new houses in Burslem are becoming home to a growing number of families, couples and singles, breathing life into the Mother Town.

Developments around the town centre were always planned to attract a mix of people from outside the area and those who may have lived locally all their lives.

Now the policy is bearing fruit, with a growing population who will, in turn, boost the town’s shops, pubs and restaurants.

Residents who have moved into their homes tell of a developing sense of community... traditional Potteries warmth in the Mother Town’s newest neighbourhoods.

And many are looking forward to a time when a revitalised Burslem might compete with the trendy areas of cities like Sarah Manchester.

Broomhall – Lisa Watson, 28, moved “now is a into her two-bed house at great time Sadlers Park with husband to buy.”

Duncan, 29, and children Declan, six and Charlotte, one, after moving into the area from the catalyst for the world’s finest Worcester. pottery also lends itself to future Lisa said: “We had to find development. somewhere quickly because of “In time Burslem will be to Duncan’s teaching job and really Stoke-on-Trent what Didsbury is dropped on here – it’s great for to Manchester.” families. We love the fact that it’s As well as attracting investors so easy to get everywhere from and commuters, Burslem’s new here. developments have given local “There is so much on the families the chance to move up doorstep, like the countryside, the housing ladder in terms of motorway and Stoke on Trent quality.

College for my studies.”

Dave Dawson, 39, and his wife Not many new housing Tina, 40, have moved into their developments can boast the first home together... a brand views, nearby Victorian town new three bedroomed property centre and great communications they describe as their “dream offered by a home in Burslem home”. town centre.

Tina said: “We wanted our first Gareth Fallows, who has a four-bedroomed house at Sadlers home to be just right and fell in love with our beautiful three Park, said: “I chose Burslem bedroomed semi. We wanted to because I draw comparisons with buy it there and then.” other areas of the country which Design of the new have already made it. House developments has been a major prices remain below the national consideration, with the Burslem average yet are indicating an Regeneration Company working upward trend. with developers to make sure “Burslem’s cultural heritage as

Duncan and Lisa Watson and their children Declan and Charlotte. Lisa said “it’s great for families”.

new housing complimented the town’s rich architecture.

And Sarah Broomhall, 24, who has also moved onto Sadlers Park, said the style and affordability of the apartments had given her the confidence to buy in Burslem.

She said: “With the right development and with the right deal now is actually a great time to buy.

“It proves you don’t need to live in the city to have a cosmopolitan lifestyle.” ● Meanwhile, more than half the homes built on the site of a former pottery works at Hadderidge Gardens have been sold. Thirty of the 48 homes have been snapped up, mainly by buyers from outside the area.

“In time Burslem will be to Stoke-on-Trent what Didsbury is to Manchester.”

Dave and Tina Dawson found their “dream home” at Sadlers Park.

Gareth Fallows

Development has secure underground car parking A PRIME town centre site at the heart of Burslem’s shopping area is being developed to provide high quality new-build housing with 21st century facilities to suit both young professionals and retired people.

The Furlong Passage development of four two-bedroom town houses with accommodation over three storeys and 25 one, two and three-bedroom apartments will feature secure underground car parking and lifts as well as a secure communal garden and outside leisure area.

Situated conveniently between St Johns Square and Woodgate Street, the

site is being developed by Longton-based Talbot Developments.

The first properties will be available next spring and the project is scheduled for completion by the summer.

Rob Talbot, of Talbot Developments, said: “The development is designed to appeal to first time buyers and young professionals as well as older people who wish to down-size and may appreciate the facility of a lift. We invested in this project because the programme of regeneration in Burslem is re-invigorating the centre of the Mother Town and making it a desirable place to live.”

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Sadlers Park is having positive impact COMPLETION of the housing scheme which will change the face of Burslem town centre is moving closer as more and more residents are making homes in the latest phase of the development.

Phase three of the Sadlers Park complex is currently being marketed and attracting healthy interest. As The Angel went to press, six of the latest batch of 46 properties released for sale had been snapped up.

So far, a lively mix of families, couples and single people have moved into the development, which combines townhouses and apartments in attractive landscaping with neat communal gardens and scupltures. When it is eventually completed, Sadlers Park will see 421 homes on the sites of the former Wade and Sadlers pottery factories.

Once sales of phase three are complete developer Countryside Properties will build a further 96 apartments before completing the site, which cuts a swathe around the town centre, from Newcastle Street to Market Square.

The final piece of the jigsaw will see two shops fronting onto the square opposite Ceramica, and forming a gateway to the Sadlers Park development.

Countryside Properties Regional Sales Director Martin Leggett said: “We have now started the fourth and final phase of building and can see the positive impact this development is having on this charming, historic town. It has been an exciting project for all involved but there’s a lot still to come.”

8

THE ANGEL

Homes and people breathe

new life in town H

UNDREDS of new houses in Burslem are becoming home to a growing number of families, couples and singles, breathing life into the Mother Town.

Developments around the town centre were always planned to attract a mix of people from outside the area and those who may have lived locally all their lives.

Now the policy is bearing fruit, with a growing population who will, in turn, boost the town’s shops, pubs and restaurants.

Residents who have moved into their homes tell of a developing sense of community... traditional Potteries warmth in the Mother Town’s newest neighbourhoods.

And many are looking forward to a time when a revitalised Burslem might compete with the trendy areas of cities like Sarah Manchester.

Broomhall – Lisa Watson, 28, moved “now is a into her two-bed house at great time Sadlers Park with husband to buy.”

Duncan, 29, and children Declan, six and Charlotte, one, after moving into the area from the catalyst for the world’s finest Worcester. pottery also lends itself to future Lisa said: “We had to find development. somewhere quickly because of “In time Burslem will be to Duncan’s teaching job and really Stoke-on-Trent what Didsbury is dropped on here – it’s great for to Manchester.” families. We love the fact that it’s As well as attracting investors so easy to get everywhere from and commuters, Burslem’s new here. developments have given local “There is so much on the families the chance to move up doorstep, like the countryside, the housing ladder in terms of motorway and Stoke on Trent quality.

College for my studies.”

Dave Dawson, 39, and his wife Not many new housing Tina, 40, have moved into their developments can boast the first home together... a brand views, nearby Victorian town new three bedroomed property centre and great communications they describe as their “dream offered by a home in Burslem home”. town centre.

Tina said: “We wanted our first Gareth Fallows, who has a four-bedroomed house at Sadlers home to be just right and fell in love with our beautiful three Park, said: “I chose Burslem bedroomed semi. We wanted to because I draw comparisons with buy it there and then.” other areas of the country which Design of the new have already made it. House developments has been a major prices remain below the national consideration, with the Burslem average yet are indicating an Regeneration Company working upward trend. with developers to make sure “Burslem’s cultural heritage as

Duncan and Lisa Watson and their children Declan and Charlotte. Lisa said “it’s great for families”.

new housing complimented the town’s rich architecture.

And Sarah Broomhall, 24, who has also moved onto Sadlers Park, said the style and affordability of the apartments had given her the confidence to buy in Burslem.

She said: “With the right development and with the right deal now is actually a great time to buy.

“It proves you don’t need to live in the city to have a cosmopolitan lifestyle.” ● Meanwhile, more than half the homes built on the site of a former pottery works at Hadderidge Gardens have been sold. Thirty of the 48 homes have been snapped up, mainly by buyers from outside the area.

“In time Burslem will be to Stoke-on-Trent what Didsbury is to Manchester.”

Dave and Tina Dawson found their “dream home” at Sadlers Park.

Gareth Fallows

Development has secure underground car parking A PRIME town centre site at the heart of Burslem’s shopping area is being developed to provide high quality new-build housing with 21st century facilities to suit both young professionals and retired people.

The Furlong Passage development of four two-bedroom town houses with accommodation over three storeys and 25 one, two and three-bedroom apartments will feature secure underground car parking and lifts as well as a secure communal garden and outside leisure area.

Situated conveniently between St Johns Square and Woodgate Street, the

site is being developed by Longton-based Talbot Developments.

The first properties will be available next spring and the project is scheduled for completion by the summer.

Rob Talbot, of Talbot Developments, said: “The development is designed to appeal to first time buyers and young professionals as well as older people who wish to down-size and may appreciate the facility of a lift. We invested in this project because the programme of regeneration in Burslem is re-invigorating the centre of the Mother Town and making it a desirable place to live.”

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Primary pupils raise funds BIG-HEARTED children at a Burslem Primary have chalked-up more than £1,750 for charity and organisations in the Mother Town.

Pupils at John Baskeyfield V.C. Church of England Primary School in Westport Road have taken-on four challenges to raise funds.

They paid a pound to dress their teddy bears up like Pudsy bear, covered their furry friends in bandages and wore wellies for the day.

The £750 generated was then donated to child patients at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, Children in Need and the Donna Louise Trust.

Finally, a penalty shoot-out involving all 430 pupils was organised in conjunction with Port Vale. The youngsters tried to beat club mascot Boomer who kept goal – and raised more than £1,000 which was split between school funds and community initiatives at Vale Park.

Reprographics Assistant at the school, Michelle Lousia, who previously fundraised at the Leopard Hotel, helped organise the events.

She said: “Credit is really due to all the pupils who really got involved and raised a great deal of money, not only for the local area, but for important charities as well. They really got into spirit of things and thanks is also due to their parents.”

10 T H E A N G E L

Stoke-on-Trent North MP Joan Walley is pictured outside new Burslem women’s outfitters What Women Want with its co-owner Karen Barnett. The shop has benefitted from a THI grant towards its signage.

Grant scheme boosts

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GRANT scheme has injected fresh confidence into Burslem by improving the appearance of historic buildings in the town. The Townscape Heritage Initiative has been pumping hundreds of thousands of pounds into restoring and enhancing the exteriors of shops, offices and restaurants.

And now major chain stores are being approached about the possibility of moving into the old Co-op building in Swan Square – where the owner has applied for a 90 per cent THI grant to give a facelift to the art deco facade.

Project Manager, Suleman Nakhooda, said: “The impact the scheme is having on the town centre is now visually taking shape and this is prompting investors to have fresh faith in the town. There are now a number of approaches being made to nationwide retailers who are interested in having their name associated with this fastdeveloping town centre.”

Roberta’s Bridal have expanded by moving to a new premises in Market Place.

The old shop has been filled by new women’s outfitters

Simply Stunning and is undergoing over £50,000 of THI-funded works to improve its exterior. There could also be a second application for 90 per cent funding to restore further historic detail.

Co-owner Sheila Hayward said: “Burslem is on the top of the list for regeneration. I remember the town in its hey-day, there is going to be money spent on it again and we wanted to be here to give the ladies of Burslem the quality they are going to want.”

The scheme has also invested into Nile Street – one of Burslem’s key gateways – where Hassall Shoe Repair Service is the first business to be improved, receiving a £13,000 grant for work to windows, guttering and the frontage.

The Hairatage hairdressing salon and The Potteries Insurance Society – both in Queen Street – are looking to benefit from improved shop windows, repairs and shop fronts.

And new businesses to the town like the Beer Emporium and women’s outfitters What Women Want have been carrying-out attractive improvements themselves – with a THI grant to restore historic signage.

There are still grants available that shops can apply for. To check if your property is within the THI Boundary log onto www.stoke.gov.uk/burslemthi2.

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Accentuating the

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EW businesses are set to move into the latest live-work units at the heart of Burslem’s Creative Quarter.

Two shops and three flats have been let in the former Cliffe’s Fashion building, bringing a music development business, designer, film producer, artist and illustrator to work in the Mother Town.

Housing and regeneration agency Midland Heart has driven forward the programme to transform Queen Street into a focal point for creative young people looking to start out in business.

In total, 17 new units have been created, funded by the Housing Corporation, North

Staffordshire Regeneration Zone, Advantage West Midlands and the Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).

Midland Heart Regeneration Manager John Webbe said: “Interest in the new units has been high. It’s exciting to attract others to what is fast becoming a centre for new creative businesses in North Staffordshire.

“The new occupiers of the live-work units are creative businesses new to Burslem.

“The final three units in Queen Street are also attracting a great deal of interest and we are hoping to be able to make an announcement on those in the near future.”

Two of the tenants of the latest phase of the Queen Street live-work units are ceramic artist Alex Shimwell, and Karen Sayle, a photographer and animator. They are pictured at the rear of the new units.

Community walks...

Port Vale Chairman Bill Bratt joins a community walk on the Greenway at Burslem. Pictured far left is the Project Development Manager Pat Whitehouse.

...a big step in the right direction FIVE new community walks around the Burslem area have been put together to help people improve their fitness by becoming more active.

The Closer to Home series of circular walks was launched in Burslem before being rolled out across the Potteries.

Funded by the city’s Primary Care Trust, the five walks in the Mother Town area are easy to follow and mainly use the parks and greenways to encourage use of open space.

Project Development Manager Pat Whitehouse said the walks had been drawn up to allow people to step outside their front door and be close to one of the routes.

She said: “The walks are a great way to enjoy some fresh air, take some exercise and even find out a little bit about Stokeon-Trent.”

The five walks around the Burslem area are: Central Forest Park to Port Vale; Mill Hill and Stanfields; Ford Green Hall and Chatterley Whitfield; Birches Head and

Northwood and Westport Lake and Nature Reserves. Leaflets produced as guides to the walks give information about wildlife, the environment and the area’s history.

Information is also available at libraries, museums, tourist information centres, the civic centre, GP surgeries and Dimensions leisure centre. For more information about the walks, or on becoming a walk leader, please telephone Pat Whitehouse on 01782 831900. Pat is based at the Vale Park Enterprise Centre.

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Flying the flag Call for creation of ‘virtual’ Sports Village to reflect Olympic spirit

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S the Olympic flag flies proudly over Burslem, a call is being made to boost expenditure on sporting facilities in the town. MP Joan Walley is campaigning for everyone in the area involved in health promotion and sport to work together as a virtual “Sports Village” to boost spending on keep-fit amenities.

She has studied similar initiatives in others areas of the UK, such as Telford where the local college and football club have teamed up to upgrade their respective sporting facilities.

Joan’s call comes as Dimensions leisure centre has been chosen as one of the few sites in Britain to mark the hand-over from Beijing by flying the Olympic flag until the 2012 Games are held in London.

She said: “We should use the Olympic spirit in order to make it easier for people to access sporting and keep-fit activities close to home at grass roots level.”

Joan, who is Vice-Chair of the Burslem Regeneration Company Board, is working closely with Councillor Debra Gratton, the City Council portfolio holder for Sports and Leisure in order to incorporate the concept of the “Sports Village” in planning the future of the city’s sports facilities.

She added: “The idea would be for everyone from the NHS Primary Care Trust and the City Council to Dimensions, Port Vale Football Club, Burslem Gymnastics Club and anyone else concerned with sport or health promotion in the area to look at what they offer at the moment and come together so they can be more effective in sourcing funding to achieve improvements.”

Meanwhile, a project called Stadium Legends is bringing together the generations through Haywood High School media pupils, Age Concern and residents from Bradeley Village to make a presentation on the role that Port Vale FC has played in the community in the past, while also looking at the future of the club and how it could support the concept of a Sports Village.

Jenna Dimiceli, aged 13, proudly waves the Olympic flag prior to a special ceremony at Lord Dimensions when Stoke-on-Trent pic Olym the ed rais Mayor Roy Capey . time first the for lem Burs standard in

-Trent North Lord Mayor Derek Capey, Stoke-on ncillor Debra MP Joan Walley, right, and City Cou and Leisure, rts Spo for Gratton, portfolio holder ed the orat mem com h whic als hold aloft med ons. ensi Dim at flag pic Olym the of raising

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