Stoke-on-Trent has been through its fair share of setbacks, knockdowns and media criticism over the years. But in recent times especially, The Potteries has come on leaps and bounds with local initiatives, investments, cultural activities, social improvements and a creative renaissance of the ceramics industry.
Yet despite the grit, determination and ongoing progress of The Potteries, there’s still a wealth of data regarding the decline of this gutsy post-war industrial city. Not only that but in a recent conference by the name of ‘What’s Next For Stoke-on-Trent’, Centre For Cities' Chief Executive, Andrew Carter stated that Stoke-on-Trent is far from unique and talking it up in a positive light would be an empty, almost pointless pursuit.
But metrics and the naysaying aside, there’s plenty of evidence to suggest that Stoke-on-Trent is a unique place, it is on the up and it does have a bright, prosperous future. And that’s, of course, something that we document on an ongoing basis.
Now, what’s particularly interesting is the personal perception of born & bred Stokies, newer residents, local students and notable visitors of The Potteries. Many of these very valuable views defy the data and paint Stoke-on-Trent in the kind of light that it deserves.
That said, recently, accomplished playwright and actor, Deborah McAndrew, wrote an incredibly astute, engaging and interesting piece for The Sentinel based on her personal perception of The Potteries and its future. And you should read it.
Inspired by these words, in the coming months, we will be inviting local voices to have their say about Stoke-on-Trent (and its surrounding areas), share their stories and offer their thoughts on the city’s future. If you consider yourself a passionate local spokesperson and you’d like to have your say through the official Rockett Home Rentals blog, please do drop us a line and we’ll get things rolling.