Baroness Taylor said: “The regeneration projects I have seen have blown me away – the potential of these wonderful historic buildings being converted into new uses is fantastic.
“I hope the people of Stoke-on-Trent will carry on doing just what they are doing – making homes for people, creating jobs here and building up those creative industries, which are going to be so important for the future of our country.”
During her visit Baroness Taylor first listened to a presentation at the Civic Centre on the huge opportunities for regeneration and development in Stoke-on-Trent, which included the challenges and issues facing the city.
A tour of the Spode Works followed with a visit to the Spode Museum, British Ceramics Biennial studio and Claybody Theatre Group – which is based at the regenerated Dipping House on the site.
Afterwards, she went to Goods Yard – the new neighbourhood development of 174 rental homes, 30,000 sq ft of workspace, independent bars, eateries, coffee shops and stores.
Tom Wilmot, Managing Director of Goods Yard developer Capital & Centric, took the Baroness on a tour of the site, which is set to open in the Spring.
Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “It was fantastic to welcome Baroness Taylor here and to showcase our city.
“We have tremendous potential for growth and improvement and our plans for building more high quality, affordable housing as well as regenerating our historic buildings and creating jobs are bearing fruit.”