Members of the public came forward with old photographs of a dragon-based water feature in Hanley Park. This involvement helped skilled workers to make the Hammersley Fountain look the part once more. Dating from the 1890s, the fountain may be showcased by postcard printing in Stoke-on-Trent for decades to come.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council (SCC) has contributed significantly to the restoration project. Resources from the Big Lottery Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund have made the initiative possible.
Councillor Anthony Munday, who has responsibility for local leisure and development, said:
“In 2018, our visitors will be able to enjoy a brew with the best view in the city on the park’s sun-kissed terrace. This will be a park with much-improved event capabilities, and a landscape that will feel altogether safer and more welcoming for all.”
Councillor Munday suggested that the transformation of Hanley Park is part of a wider economic and cultural strategy. SCC wants Stoke-on-Trent to secure the UK City of Culture title for 2021. If the partners achieve this goal then the park may be a suitable setting for quite a wide variety of events.
Meanwhile, the old pavilion shall become a fresh community space. At the same time, there is a plan to refurbish a boathouse and a bandstand.