Stoke-on-Trent is preparing a bid to join a network of the world’s creative powerhouses.
The city could join the likes of Casablanca, Rio and Cannes as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, which could help raise its profile and worldwide reputation as a centre of creative excellence.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council hopes the city’s unique cultural heritage and global contribution to the ceramic industry will win it its place.
If the city makes it into the network, it will join only 13 other creative cities in the UK – and be the first one in the West Midlands.
UNESCO research shows creative cities generate more innovation, growth and tourism – as well as being able to tap into support and expertise from some of the world’s most famous cultural hotspots.
Membership would also be a gateway to a potential future bid for World Heritage Site status.
The city council’s cabinet will decide on whether to press on with a bid when it meets next week.
Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Economic Development, Culture and Sport, said: “If successful with the bid, it would place Stoke-on-Trent in an elite league of creative and cultural cities – something we believe is not out of place given our cultural heritage and contribution to the ceramic industry worldwide.
“A successful bid would also provide exciting economic opportunities, the potential for job creation and would support us in preserving and repurposing our city’s enviable number of heritage buildings.”
Cities are accredited in one of eight specialist fields. Stoke-on-Trent will likely bid under the ‘Craft and Folk Art’ field.
Any bid would be developed as a partnership with organisations like Stoke Creates and the city’s two universities. The Stoke-on-Trent bid would be prepared in time for the next round of applications in 2027.
Stoke Creates Founding Board Member Paul Williams said: “Having been designated as a World Craft City in 2024, Stoke-on-Trent is ideally placed to submit a successful application to become a UNESCO Creative City.
“Achieving this accreditation offers unparalleled opportunities to capitalise on Stoke-on-Trent’s post-centenary cultural renown and creative talent to strengthen local economic and social development.”
The Creative Cities Network started in 2004 to promote co-operation between cities where creativity is a crucial part of their heritage, identity, and economic future.
