Residents, businesses and community groups in Longton are being invited to help shape a bid to make the town the UK’s first Town of Culture.
The winning town in the national competition will receive £3 million to deliver a year-long cultural programme in 2028.
Organisers are asking local people to help define what makes Longton special and what should be celebrated on the national stage.
The ideas, stories and ambitions shared now will shape the vision for a potential year-long programme.
The bid, initiated by Longton Exchange, has gathered support from organisations including Stoke-on-Trent City Council, the World Crafts Council and Duchess China 1888.
The campaign is being led by Urban Wilderness CIC, the team behind Longton Carnival and Pig Walk and the Wintr Gathering – and who supported the People’s Parade during the city’s Centenary year.
They are now inviting people to complete an online survey and take part in community conversations about Longton’s future.
Longton has a strong cultural identity shaped by both heritage and modern creativity. It grew into a major centre for bone china and earthenware production and today is home to artists, musicians, makers, community organisations and events that continue to define the town’s character.
Isla Telford of Urban Wilderness said: "This is a great opportunity for the people of Longton to tell their own story. We're called the 'Neck End' and it's easy to overlook the activity, passion and talent that still thrives here, led by the community.
We don't have big venues, theatres, or even a cinema but on top of our world-class industrial heritage and ongoing ceramics production, we also have thriving independent businesses, huge numbers of dance clubs, sports clubs, and creative groups - and a community that knows how to say 'yes' to a good celebration.
“We want all those voices to shape this bid, and who knows? Someone has to win!"
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent city council said: “Longton’s culture is shaped by the people who live, work and create here. This bid is an opportunity for those voices to shape a shared vision for the town and show the country what Longton has to offer.
“Longton’s pottery heritage, creative industry, public artworks and growing arts and music scene give the town a character you can’t find anywhere else.
“We know there is real pride and creativity in Longton. Its pottery heritage, creative industry and growing arts and music scene give the town a character you can’t find anywhere else.
“Community involvement will be key to making this bid strong and credible.”
People can support the bid by hosting community discussions, sharing the survey with local networks, contributing photos and stories and spreading the word on social media. Residents are also invited to learn more and share ideas at the Longton Town Forum on Wednesday 4 March, 6pm at The Moony Club, Longton Exchange.
For more information, and to complete the survey, go to: https://urbanwildernesscic.com/longton-28
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