£5M Makeover Sparks Exciting New Era for Potteries Museum!

The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Hanley is undergoing a major transformation, thanks to a £5 million contract that has just been signed. The museum, which has been closed since December 8, 2025, is known for its large brown brick facade decorated with images of pottery makers, wagons, and kilns. The gold lettering on the front reads 'The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery,' making it a landmark in Stoke-on-Trent. Stoke-on-Trent City Council has selected the construction company Seddon to carry out the renovation work. The project will include a brand new entrance, a foyer cafe, and improved public spaces to make the museum more welcoming and comfortable for visitors. Preparatory work has already been completed, and the main construction is set to begin this month. The museum will reopen gradually, starting from March 28.

One of the highlights of the renovation is the addition of increased open storage. This means that visitors will be able to see artefacts even when they are not part of a formal exhibition, making the museum's collection more accessible. Another exciting feature is the creation of an artist-in-residence room. This space will allow artists to work alongside the museum's collections and create new pieces inspired by the history and culture of Stoke-on-Trent. The council believes that this will help strengthen the connection between the city's rich history and its modern culture and craft.

Councillor Sarah Hill, who is responsible for finance, anti-poverty, and corporate services, said that the investment will help protect one of Stoke-on-Trent's most important cultural assets. The redevelopment is being funded by the Cultural Development Fund, which is supported by Arts Council England and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The council is committed to making the museum a vibrant and valuable place for the community, ensuring that it continues to celebrate the city's heritage and creativity. These changes are expected to make the museum more engaging and enjoyable for everyone who visits, and to keep it as a key part of Stoke-on-Trent's cultural landscape.