City Centre Regeneration Area, Stoke 

Stoke Transformed: A New Hub for Culture, Sport, and Entertainment Unveiled.

The project aimed to transform a large site in Stoke into a vibrant hub for entertainment, leisure, sport, and culture. In line with the council’s vision, the focus was on revitalizing the area to boost health, wellbeing, and attract new visitors. Ultimately, the goal was to establish Hanley as a premier destination, enhancing day visits, weekend tourism, and the night-time economy.

SPACE&PLACE (S&P) engaged extensively with the community, business leaders, as well as local officials to shape the redevelopment strategy. As a result, three key options emerged: 1) A culture, sport, and leisure hub featuring a 3,500-seat arena and hotel/conference facilities, 2) A retail-focused development, and 3) A residential-led scheme. Each option aimed to link the site with the city’s core, thus creating a compelling ‘destination.’

The chosen plan features a dynamic 3,500-capacity arena, strategically positioned to maximize visibility as well as accessibility. This arena will serve as a central venue for concerts, conferences, and events, anchoring the new urban quarter. Moreover, the surrounding landscape design, inspired by the arena’s shape, incorporates water jets and layered plantings, thereby creating a lively and inviting environment.

A new 4-star hotel from the north will welcome visitors, featuring high-quality paving and layered planting to enhance the public space. In addition, the west gateway will open into vibrant food and beverage areas with a clear view of the arena. Nearby, the Youth Zone will offer a lively and secure space for children and teens.

Furthermore, the pedestrian street linking the west gateway to the arena will feature a range of food and beverage units, designed to attract and engage visitors. The consistent curved shapes and inviting walkways will connect the site’s various zones seamlessly.

Results

The strategic vision successfully transformed a large site in Stoke into a vibrant hub for entertainment, leisure, sport, and culture.  

February 2020