Designed by Thomas Mawson on colliery waste land, 400 metres east of Burslem town centre, Burslem Park is considered to be one of the best examples of Mawson’s early work. The original layout remains largely unchanged, with most of the key elements still evident.

Through a variety of engagement activities and restoration work, our investment was used to bring the heritage and wildlife of the park into better condition. Work included the restoration of the pavilion, the terrace, the rose garden and the main entrance. Environmental and educational programmes for schools and families were delivered, allowing a wide range of people to learn about the park’s heritage. Local volunteers have been trained in skills ranging from horticulture to park management, and will continue to work towards ensuring the park’s future.

Rob Belcher, Park Project Manager at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The funding has had a massive impact on both the quality of the historic fabric and the day-to-day use of Burslem Park. Facilities have been greatly improved, the number of visitors has increased by a third and there has also been a significant increase in sustained volunteer activity.

"I'd like to think that we have made the park better for people from the local community as well as for those visitors from further afield."