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Economic growth

Stoke-on-Trent Aims to Join Exclusive Club of World's Creative Powerhouses

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is preparing a bid to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, a prestigious group of cities that drive economic growth and tourism through their cultural heritage and creative industries. The city would be one of only 13 creative cities in the UK and the first in the West Midlands, with the potential to raise its profile and reputation as a centre of creative excellence. The move would provide opportunities for job creation, economic growth, and the preservation of heritage buildings.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stoke-on-Trent aims to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, a group of 350 cities worldwide that promote co-operation and creativity in urban development.
  • The city would be one of only 13 creative cities in the UK and the first in the West Midlands, with a bid expected to be submitted in 2026.
  • Stoke-on-Trent's bid would be based on its unique cultural heritage and global contribution to the ceramic industry, with a focus on the "Craft and Folk Art" field.
  • Cities in the network work together to drive economic growth and tourism, with UNESCO research showing that creative cities generate more innovation, growth, and tourism.
  • Membership in the network would provide potential future access to World Heritage Site status, with Stoke-on-Trent's current World Craft City designation making it an ideal candidate.
  • The city council's cabinet will decide whether to proceed with the bid, with preparations being made as a partnership with organisations like Stoke Creates and the city's two universities.

Statistics:

  • 350: Number of member cities in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network worldwide.
  • 13: Number of creative cities in the UK, with Stoke-on-Trent aiming to become the 14th.
  • 2024: Year in which Stoke-on-Trent was designated a World Craft City.
  • 2026: Year in which Strombeek-Bever bids for UNESCO Creative City membership, with Stokeon-Trent expected to submit a bid in the same round.

Sources:

  • Stoke-on-Trent City Council, UK Government news release
  • UNESCO Creative Cities Network information page (no specific date provided)
  • Stoke-on-Trent City Council leadership quotes (no specific date provided)

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