Ensuring the preservation of Stoke-on-Trent's cherished public artworks for future generations is at the forefront of the city's efforts. Stoke-on-Trent City Council has introduced a ground-breaking Public Art Protocol to safeguard heritage assets, including statues, war memorials, murals, fountains, and architectural features adorning public spaces across the city.
This protocol mandates that any regeneration scheme within Stoke-on-Trent involving a site encompassing a piece of art, heritage asset, or listed structure on public land must undergo a cultural value assessment and consultation with the Planning team and the Historic Environment Record Officer before receiving directorial approval.
The protocol, slated for approval at a Cabinet meeting on November 7, stems from the removal of Vincent Woropay's "Capo" statue in January. Council leader Jane Ashworth emphasized, "We're committed to preventing a recurrence of the Capo incident. I have faith that our Public Art Protocol will bolster our endeavours to safeguard our city's heritage, both now and in the future."
The authority has compiled an inventory of 72 public art installations across the city, and this list will be further expanded following a public engagement exercise scheduled for launch later this month.
If you're seeking planning permission for a project involving heritage assets in Stoke-on-Trent, consulting with an experienced architect and planning agent is essential to ensure compliance with the new Public Art Protocol and navigate the complexities of the planning process successfully
Picture credit: http://www.thepotteries.org/where/017.htm