Statue set for move despite visibility concerns

The statue of the famous potter was built in 1862 and stands between Stoke-on-Trent station and the North Stafford hotel.

Controversial plans to move a historic statue are again being recommended for approval, despite concerns the artwork could lose its impact.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council wants to relocate the Grade II-listed Josiah Wedgwood statue standing in Winton Square opposite Stoke-on-Trent station.

Moving it in front of the station entrance is part of a wider £9 million revamp of Station Road.

Council officers say moving the statue allows for "greater appreciation" of it, while some councillors on the planning committee think it could have the opposite effect.

In December, the committee deferred making a decision on the wider scheme so the option of retaining the statue in its current location could be assessed.

'Focal point for visitors'

A new report considers the pros and cons of keeping the statue where it is, relocating it as originally proposed, or moving it back away from the road.

But officers are still recommending it is moved closer to the railway station, stating it is the most suitable option.

The wider scheme would see the realignment of Station Road to create a wider footway outside the station entrance.

It includes the installation of a bus gate to block most through traffic.

According to the new report, moving the statue across the road would create a "focal point for visitors exiting the station."

It would also be "less vulnerable to accidental vehicle strikes," as it would be on the inside of the bend.

Artist's impression of how the statue would look if it was moved nearer to the railway station

But the report acknowledges that "closer 360-degree appreciation" of the statue would no longer be possible, and it would not be centrally located within Winton Square.

A third option – moving the statue back towards the North Stafford hotel – has been discounted due to "insurmountable" highways issues relating to maintenance access, and the need for works on privately-owned land.

The idea of pedestrianising the area in front of the station was a good one, said planning committee member Ross Irving, who was among those who raised concerns over the statue move.

"But we should protect what is a beautiful mock Jacobean square. The statue is just one aspect of the overall scheme, but it is an important one."

Committee members will make a final decision on Wednesday.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.