Potters Patch continues to flourish thanks to community support

Residents, schools and volunteers are helping transform a community space in Stoke-on-Trent.

A new report from delivery partners Groundwork shows the Potters Patch, on Bucknall New Road, Hanley, continues to deliver environmental, educational and wellbeing benefits for local people.

The project, supported by Stoke-on-Trent City Council and delivered in partnership with Groundwork, has seen significant progress over recent months despite an exceptionally hot and dry summer.

The community growing space has become a focal point for residents, schools and volunteers, providing opportunities to learn new skills, improve wellbeing and take pride in the local area. Site visits over in August also revealed a thriving environment, with fruit, vegetables and flowers flourishing across the site, including tomatoes, peppers, blackberries and sunflowers planted by pupils from St Luke's CE Primary School.

The project has also played an important role in supporting education and skills development. Students from local schools have taken part in practical activities including planting, woodwork and environmental learning, while children involved with eco clubs have been able to harvest produce and learn about sustainable food growing.

Community involvement continues to be at the heart of the project's success. Residents living near the site helped care for plants during the summer heatwave, while Groundwork welcomed around 70 volunteers over the school holidays and hosted weekly children's sessions throughout the summer.

A range of seasonal activities are now planned, including pumpkin planting, pumpkin picking during half-term and a Halloween trail, helping to encourage even more local families to get involved.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is also exploring further enhancements to the site following feedback from local residents, including opportunities for additional recreational facilities which could continue to benefit communities in the future.

Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for safe and resilient communities and housing at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: "Potters Patch is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local people come together to improve their neighbourhood.

"The project is helping people develop new skills, build confidence and strengthen community connections, while creating a greener and more attractive environment for everyone to enjoy.

"It has been particularly encouraging to see residents, schools and volunteers embracing the project and taking real ownership of the space. Their commitment has helped ensure it continues to thrive despite the challenges posed by the hot summer weather."

For more information about community projects and environmental initiatives across Stoke-on-Trent, visit https://www.groundwork.org.uk/