Social Hub in Hanley

A new initiative is set to transform Hanley Piccadilly into a thriving hub for enjoying socialising and entertainment this August.

Stoke-on-Trent BID is heading the initiative which is bringing FRIDAY NIGHT SOCIALS to Piccadilly during Friday evenings in with participating venues opening their doors to offer al-fresco dining. Local DJ’s will also be playing music on a stage area located at both the north and south points of the street.

The Friday Night Socials will take place between 4pm and 9pm – starting on August 9th.

With a myriad of vibrant independent businesses along Piccadilly, it is one of the BID’s priorities to showcase the unique and enticing offering whilst increasing footfall through various events and initiatives. Venues including The Slamwich Club, RAWR Bar and Kitchen, Klay Pizzeria, Bottlecraft, Bar 41, Pilgrim’s Pit, Peter’s Tavern, The Corner, Unicorn Inn and The Quarter will be participating in the nights.

BID Manager Richard Buxton believes that this new enterprise will benefit the City Centre’s economy and that it is a step in the right direction to becoming an attractive and engaging destination: “This is the kind of thing we as a city need to be doing to put us on the same stage as our neighbouring cities,” said Richard Buxton.

“We have some incredible independent eateries and an amazing entertainment offering in the Piccadilly area and so there is no reason why we cannot aspire to an ambiance similar to Liverpool’s Concert Square. With the summer season finally upon us, many patrons will be keen to make use of outdoor areas for eating and drinking. We hope to welcome city centre employees for post-work drinks and those seeking to socialise on a Friday evening.”

Steve Armstrong who owns RAWR Kitchen + Bar said: “I’m a huge advocate of anything that will help bring more people to the city centre. There’s a lot of negative perceptions about the place but in truth, lots of exciting new independent businesses are popping up that are bringing about real, positive change to the city and this is the perfect chance to celebrate that, along with our customers. Friday Night Socials will provide a great platform to promote Piccadilly’s local, community feel, by drinking and eating in independent bars, cafes and restaurants and listening to local musicians. We’re even putting on a DJ of our own for the first Friday Night Social, so there’ll be plenty of entertainment to enjoy!”

For updates about the Friday Night Socials please go to the Stoke-on-Trent BID’s Facebook page.

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