Shopping village plan for derelict pottery factory

The site in Longport is Grade II* listed and has been closed for 20 years

A Stoke-on-Trent businessman wants to transform a derelict pottery factory into a shopping village.

Wayne Walker, owner of Wayne Walker Quality Meats, has bought the Grade II* listed Price and Kensington Teapot Works in Longport.

The early 19th Century potbank closed 20 years ago and has fallen into serious disrepair, suffering fires and fly-tipping.

Mr Walker wants the site, which is next to his existing business, to become a "destination" mixed-use scheme.

Historic England has placed the factory on its heritage at risk register due to its condition, and Stoke-on-Trent City Council has previously taken enforcement action against its former owner.

Revealing his plans in a Facebook video, Mr Walker said he had been working on the project for more than two years, and had recently bought the site.

"It’s going to be absolutely fantastic. We’ve got loads of great plans for it, a cash and carry, a restaurant, a gaming hub. We’ll be developing that whole site."

"We’re still going to keep the heritage of the site, and use the building to its full potential."

A Stoke-on-Trent City Council spokesperson said: “We are committed to protecting and enhancing the heritage of our city and welcome working with the new owner of Price and Kensington to regenerate the site.”

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