Stoke-on-Trent City Council Planning Committee has approved a new 58 home development for the Crown Works site in Longton.

The project, to be delivered by OVI Homes, will include a mix of one and two bedroom apartments all designed for over 55s.

The site will also include a communal lounge and landscaped courtyard space for resident use. The design will aim to incorporate the area's historic connection to the ceramic trade.

This includes the retention of the existing facade as well as new builds that reflects original design features such as gable roofs and brick-built construction.

Work is expected to begin on the site this summer. There will be local employment, apprenticeships and work placement opportunities throughout the build. OVI is also keen to work with the community and is working with local community organisation Urban Wilderness to identify opportunities.


Commenting on the project, Councillor Duncan Walker, Cabinet Member for Planning, Climate Change & Regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: "Planning approval is a giant step to a project becoming a reality and we're excited to see the transformation of this landmark site and the positive impact for Longton.

"OVI Homes is committed to making a difference in Stoke-on-Trent and with clever design they have been able to balance the need for modern, safe and attractive homes whist not losing sight of historic significance and local identity.

"Despite the added complexity, restoring our heritage is worthwhile for the character of places and local pride, helping to attract further investment."

Reflecting on their involvement, OVI Homes Director Jon Flowerdew, said: "OVI has worked tirelessly to breathe new life into this exciting regeneration prospect. Full planning approval offers a huge boost to our ambitious development plans for 2023/2024, and our long-standing commitment to the Crown Works site in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent is an incredibly positive and exciting part of that investment.

"The Crown Works development will transform the gateway to Longton and we have taken time and care to understand the specific challenges on site and the surrounding area to find a sensitive but contemporary building and landscape design.

"Our collaborative approach complements complex public and private regeneration, and the highly positive planning response allows us to begin to build a lasting and productive relationship with the Stoke-on-Trent Council team and local stakeholders across the city on a broad range of projects for the future."