Longton town centre is set to get a new piece of public art, and local people are being invited to help shape it.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council is developing the new artwork and is calling on residents, workers, visitors and anyone with a connection to the town to share their memories, experiences and hopes. These contributions will help ensure the finished piece reflects the character, history and pride of Longton.
The project follows work over the last 18 months to reduce anti-social behaviour in Longton town centre, particularly around the bus station, which included lighting and safety upgrades to the area. In addition to this, Longton is also benefiting from the Levelling Up fund and the Transforming City Fund. The artwork will be funded by Design Out Crime budget allocation.
Improving the look and feel of public spaces plays an important role in the work. By transforming a blank wall into a piece of public art shaped by the community, the project will help create a more active, welcoming space that people use positively.
Working with partners, including Tesco and Network Rail, this project creates a new opportunity to celebrate Longton and everything that makes it unique.
One part of the project, a 70-metre stretch of wall near Longton railway station, is now visible following clearance work by Network Rail. The wall will be transformed by a local artist into a large-scale piece of public art inspired by the community’s stories. Other locations will be near to the Longton Train Station.
People are encouraged to share moments, landmarks and everyday experiences that show what Longton means to them today. This could include photos, favourite places or small details that make the town feel like home. The artwork will also look to the future, using community ideas to reflect hopes for the next chapter of Longton.
Dr Allison Gardner, Member of Parliament for Stoke-on-Trent South, said: “Longton is a place shaped by the people who live, work and care deeply about our town. This project gives the community a chance to share the stories and memories that make Longton unique. I’m delighted to support this work and I’d encourage everyone to get involved and help inspire a piece of public art that truly reflects the pride and spirit of our area.”
Councillor Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing and planning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Longton has a story worth telling and we want this artwork to be shaped by the people best placed to tell it The artwork will be created with the people of Longton, not just for them. Every story, photo and memory contributes to a richer picture of what Longton means - its heritage, its community, and its future. I’m really looking forward to hearing from residents and seeing how their voices help shape a piece that celebrates everything special about our town.”
Every contribution, big or small, will help tell the story of Longton. The finished artwork will celebrate the people who call the town home alongside where Longton has come from and where it’s going next.
Residents can share stories, photos or reflections via PublicRealm@stoke.gov.uk
or visit https://www.stoke.gov.uk/info/20003/your_council_your_city/804/longton_past_present_and_future_%E2%80%93_your_stories_your_art for more information.
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