The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery is set for a major transformation after a £5 million contract was signed to upgrade the city centre landmark.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council has appointed Stoke-on-Trent-based construction firm Seddon to deliver the design and build programme, which will introduce a new entrance, a foyer café, improved public spaces, and increased open storage, allowing artefacts to be seen by visitors even when not on display.
The redevelopment will also feature an artist-in-residence room, providing a space for artists to work alongside and draw inspiration from the museum’s renowned collections. The initiative aims to create a bridge between the city’s historic heritage and its modern craft and culture.
Daily Focus previously reported that Seddon had been awarded a pre-construction service agreement for the project.
Preparatory work has already been completed, with the main construction phase beginning this month. The museum will reopen in stages from 28 March, with visitors able to access highlights including the Spitfire, the Forum Theatre, and Violet’s café, which will feature a new display. Entry will be managed as work continues elsewhere in the building.
Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for finance, anti-poverty and corporate services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This £5 million investment protects one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most important cultural assets.
“The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery is home to the world’s largest collection of Staffordshire ceramics and the iconic Spitfire that draws visitors from across the country.
“These improvements will create a stronger entrance, better public spaces and a more welcoming environment, while keeping our nationally significant collections accessible as work progresses.”
The redevelopment has been funded through a successful £5 million bid to Arts Council England and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Cultural Development Fund.
Further details on the museum’s new exhibition and an expanded programme of film and documentary screenings in the theatre are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
