Five unique projects have been announced that will vividly enhance a heritage trail celebrating Stoke-on-Trent’s rich history – just as it gets ready to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
A music track marking the city’s contribution to the history and revival of the Northern Soul scene will be produced, while people will also be able to take part in a digital guided walk to learn about the area’s connection to ceramics and plants.
As well as the music and nature themes, food, identity and children & families are set to feature as part of the unique heritage trail.
The projects, which are still being finalised, are being funded by a £30,000 Arts Council grant and £20,000 of UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) money taken from the Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Living Heritage City Trail project.
Last year, the city council received £100,000 in UKSPF funding for the heritage trail project which aims to showcase Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage to visitors, local residents, schools and community groups and highlight the city as a cultural destination.
Starting at the Spode Works site and ending at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, the self-led trail, pictured above, takes around one-hour to complete on foot.
Other locations featured in the trail include Stoke Minster Church, Winton Square, Beresford Street, Hanley Park and St Mark’s Church in Shelton.
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Families and visitors have enjoyed exploring the trail since it was launched last year and learning about our city’s rich history and we’ve had some fantastic feedback about it.
“These five projects will enhance the trail and open up new experiences to people as they learn, have fun and enjoy seeing our city in different ways.
“The final trail will be finished in 2025 and will be wonderful addition to our city as it celebrates its centenary year.”
A new map will be produced for the official launch of the trail next year, highlighting all of new projects along the route.
The map will be available in paper format and, also, as an app which will be available from the App Store and Google Play Store.
The digital map will give users access to additional content and navigation along the trail.
This route would have been better if it ran through the park then along the canal to Emma Bridgwater. The college Road route is pretty boring. Did someone who lives locally actually explore this initially?