Twelve priority projects have been identified as part of Stoke-on-Trent’s ambitious plan for growth, jobs and improved opportunities across the city.
The projects form the first phase of the delivery plan for Future 100, the city’s economic prospectus presented at 10 Downing Street earlier this year.
Future 100 sets out a programme to secure growth, improve transport, strengthen skills, regenerate the city and support healthier communities.
The 12 priority projects from Future 100 have been identified by the city partnership, which brings together leaders from public, private and voluntary organisations across Stoke-on-Trent. They reflect the projects that will have the greatest impact on local jobs and opportunity. Many require specific, targeted investment from government to unlock rapid growth.
The 12 projects selected as priorities for the first phase of the Future 100 delivery plan are:
- An A50/500 investment plan, creating 39,000 jobs and 70,000 new homes among a key growth corridor.
- Rapid expansion in key growth sectors, including advanced manufacturing, digital and creative industries.
- Support for the ceramics industry, including investment in clean technology.
- A Bus Rapid Transit network providing metro-style fast, reliable, high-capacity journeys in zero-emission buses with smart ticketing.
- An energy system and eco-park at Chatterley Whitfield, including an AI growth zone and datacentre.
- A Housing Land Fund to reclaim, secure and develop more brownfield sites.
- The regeneration of the city centre.
- Continued work to rescue and revitalise the city’s nationally and internationally important heritage assets, as well as progress on plans to secure UNESCO Creative City status.
- Improving education attainment, including developing new vocational pathways for young people aged 14 and over.
- Direct investment in the city’s Strengthening Communities Programme, aimed at improving lives and opportunities in the most deprived neighbourhoods.
- A work and health programme, helping residents who might otherwise leave work due to ill-health through early intervention and tailored support.
- Increased investment in Family Matters, the successful city programme ensure children get a better start in life through support and access to key services.
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Future 100 set out an ambitious but realistic plan to tackle our economic, social and environmental challenges.
“These twelve projects give us a clear focus for delivery.
“They will drive jobs, unlock investment, improve skills and support strong communities. We are now working with our partners to turn these priorities into action.”
For more information on the Future 100 City Prospectus go to: www.stoke.gov.uk/cityprospectus.
