New Hanley community growing space to bring people and nature together

An ambitious new community project, which is set to breathe new life into a vacant site in Hanley, officially launched Friday 26 June.

The Potters’ Patch, on Bucknall New Road, is being delivered through a partnership between Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Groundwork West Midlands. The initiative will transform the currently unused land into a vibrant community garden designed to benefit both people and nature, whilst acting as a highly vibrant gateway to the city.

The new space will feature community growing areas, fruit trees, pollinator-friendly planting and areas for relaxation, learning and volunteering. The project has been designed to encourage greater community involvement while improving biodiversity and helping residents connect with the natural environment.

Residents were invited to attend the launch event which included interactive activities such as seed sowing and willow weaving to create functional or decorative objects. Visitors were given the chance to explore the site and find out more about future opportunities.

The community garden is expected to become a focal point for local activities, with a programme of volunteering sessions, practical gardening projects, workshops and environmental learning opportunities planned throughout the year.

A variety of planting schemes will be introduced across the site, including nectar-rich flowers that provide valuable habitats for bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. Fruit trees and edible crops will also be grown, helping residents learn about food production while also creating opportunities for future community harvests.

Councillor Amjid Wazir, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for city pride and enforcement at Stoke-on-Trent City Council said:

“The Potters’ Patch is a fantastic example of how we can bring underused spaces back into positive use for our communities. This project will not only enhance the local environment but also create opportunities for people of all ages to get involved, learn new skills and spend time together outdoors.

“We know how important access to quality green spaces can be for health and wellbeing, and we're excited to see local residents help shape the future of this new community asset.”

Melissa Underwood, Head of Nature Recovery at Groundwork West Midlands, said:

“The Potters’ Patch is about creating a space where people, nature and community can thrive together.

“By transforming an underused site into a welcoming green space, we hope to provide opportunities for local people to connect, learn new skills, support biodiversity and take pride in shaping the future of their neighbourhood.”

Groundwork West Midlands works with communities across the region to improve local environments and create opportunities for people to lead healthier, greener and more resilient lives. Through practical projects and partnerships, the organisation supports community action, environmental improvement and nature recovery.

Residents interested in finding out more about The Potters’ Patch are encouraged to attend the launch event on Bucknall New Road and discover how they can play a role in the site's future development.