Longton set to benefit from major investment to improve transport network and public realm

A Stoke-on-Trent town is set to be transformed with major improvements proposed for transport and the public realm.

Longton will benefit from an initiative which aims to improve pedestrian links between the town’s bus and train stations, the town centre and the Tesco retail park.

The scheme will also improve congestion and bus services in the town.

The substantial investment has been supported by funding from the government’s Levelling Up Fund, Bus Service Improvement Plan and Transforming Cities Fund schemes.

The proposals include:

• New paving, tree planting and a revised traffic layout for Times Square
• A new civic space and public realm in front of the town hall
• Red routes to improve traffic circulation and reduce congestion
• New pedestrian crossings in the town centre
• New railings, paving and lighting at Baths Passage as well as a mural which celebrates the history of the town
• New railings, seating and tree planting at Strand Passage
• Wider pavements between the train station and Market Street
• Implementing a one-way system (northbound) on Transport Lane

Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, regeneration and infrastructure at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We want to make sure our town centres work for everyone which is why we are maximising this investment by co-ordinating a number of improvement schemes and delivering real benefits for residents.

“Our overall plan for the town is to create a network of improvements which will enhance the links between the railway and bus stations, the town centre and the retail park.

“We want to encourage more people into Longton, support existing businesses and provide a more attractive environment for residents, workers, shoppers and visitors. We also want to reduce congestion in the town centre and ensure our bus services remain reliable.”

People are being invited to have their say on the proposals during a three-week consultation which runs until Wednesday 6 August.

An online survey can be completed at www.stoke.gov.uk/publicrealm. Alternatively, further details of the proposals will be available in Longton Indoor Market, Tesco Longton and Urban Wilderness CIC, inside the Longton Exchange, from Monday 21 July.

A public consultation event will also take place at Longton Indoor Market on Friday 1 August.

The Longton proposals form part of wider £6.5 million public realm plans, which also incorporate Burslem, Longton and Stoke.