Capital&Centric’s Spode transformation takes another huge step forward

Social impact developer Capital&Centric and Stoke-on-Trent City Council have revealed final plans to unlock the first phase of Spode Works’ iconic heritage site, marking a major milestone in the regeneration of one of the city’s most significant historic areas.

The plans will create a vibrant new destination with public spaces to hang out, including independent cafes bars and restaurants, as well as workspaces and padel courts.

Right in the heart of Stoke town centre, Spode Works is a unique collection of historic buildings, bottle kilns and industrial spaces that helped put the city on the global map for ceramics.

The first phase has been carefully designed to respect Spode’s unique character, retaining and celebrating the historic buildings that make it special, while creating new opportunities for people to visit, work, spend time in and enjoy.

The wider masterplan will create a mixed-use neighbourhood featuring more homes and workspaces, indie food and drink operators, cultural attractions and tonnes of greenery and planting.

Tom Wilmot, Joint Managing Director at Capital&Centric, said:

“Spode Works is one of the most important heritage sites in Stoke-on-Trent and deserves a future that matches its incredible history. This first phase is about opening the site up, bringing people back in and creating the foundations for a thriving new neighbourhood.

“We want to celebrate everything that makes Spode unique, its architecture, its stories and its creative spirit, while creating new reasons for people to spend time here. This is the beginning of a long-term transformation that will help secure the future of the site for generations to come.”

Subject to planning approval, the first phase will help unlock significant investment while securing the long-term future of Spode’s historic buildings.

The plans build on Capital&Centric’s growing track record in Stoke-on-Trent, following the delivery of Goods Yard, the award-winning neighbourhood next to the train station that has brought hundreds of new residents into the city centre.

The proposals have also been shaped by feedback gathered during a public consultation, leaning on stakeholders’ knowledge of the site, local people, businesses and helping refine the plans ahead of submission.