Stoke-on-Trent is set for a major transformation after more than 180 community projects applied for funding under a new £1.5 million Pride in Place Impact Fund. The city council has now approved the first wave of projects, with cash going directly into parks, high streets and public spaces across Stoke.
Among the first projects to receive funding are £10,000 for new gym equipment at Mace Street Park in Trent Vale, £10,000 for five-a-side football goals at Waterdale Park in Longton, and nearly £10,000 to refurbish Ball Green Park. The council selected these schemes because they deliver community benefits and promote equality and inclusion across Stoke.
More funding announcements are expected over the coming weeks as the council finalises agreements with successful applicants. The investment represents the first phase of a much larger commitment, with the government pledging up to £60 million for bigger projects in three priority neighbourhoods: Meir North; Bentilee and Ubberley; and Bradeley, Chell Heath and Fegg Hayes.
The fund will continue until March 2027, giving Stoke residents rapid improvements they can see and feel proud of. Local communities will benefit from enhanced parks and public spaces that encourage residents to get outside and spend time together.