The Story of Burslem: A Town in Decline and Hope
Once a thriving market town, Burslem now stands as a stark reminder of the decline of the British high street. Known for its rich architectural heritage, the small town in Stoke-on-Trent is home to 27 listed buildings and as many blue plaques as there are open shops. However, the current state of the town is far from what it once was.
A Town with a Rich History
Burslem’s origins can be traced back to the 18th and 19th centuries when the area’s pottery industry dominated the global market. The town’s stunning architecture reflects this period of prosperity, with grand buildings that once housed bustling businesses and vibrant communities. But today, the sight of boarded-up storefronts and empty units dominates the landscape.
Terry Cotes, a lifelong resident, recalls the days when Burslem was a lively place. “The only banks now in Burslem are food banks,” he said. “Everything has closed and deteriorated. The market has been gone for decades now.”
Memories of a Bustling Town
For those over 50, Burslem was once a bustling hub. Jim, 74, remembers the 1970s when the town was so crowded that drivers feared a drop-off in Burslem. However, by 2019, Burslem had the highest percentage of empty units in the UK.
Culturally, the changes have been profound. Terry pointed to the George Hotel, once a popular venue for weddings and special occasions. Today, the hotel is “permanently closed” and serves as a refuge for those in need. Locals say it has become a haven for asylum seekers and homeless families, replacing its former clientele of alcoholics and drug users.
The Impact of Economic Shifts
The decline of Burslem is closely tied to the economic shifts that have affected the region. Former pottery worker Shelley Bond, 62, recalls the rapid decline in the 1990s when production moved to Indonesia. “This was a buzzing little town but in the nineties the decline became really rapid,” she said.
The closure of key industries led to a loss of jobs and a decline in the local economy. The once-thriving Leopard Hotel, which played a role in the Industrial Revolution, is now a derelict building. It was transformed into a cannabis farm and later suffered a mysterious fire. Despite plans to redevelop the site, no progress has been made.
A Town on the Brink
Despite the challenges, Burslem still holds onto its history. Queen’s Street, home to the Wedgwood Institute, is a testament to the area’s artistic legacy. However, many buildings are now on English Heritage’s At Risk Register. Marilyn Mountford, 72, noted the lack of action despite promises of revitalization. “The place has gone to the dogs. All we hear is talk of what they are going to do to but nothing happens,” she said.
Local businesses have struggled to survive. The Boots store, a letting agent, a courier shop, an insurance broker, and a takeaway have all closed. The indoor market, once a central part of the town, is now just a memory.
A New Hope?
Amidst the decline, there are signs of hope. The recent installation of a statue of Lemmy, lead singer of Motorhead, has brought new attention to Burslem. Amanda Bromley, who runs the Barewall Art Gallery, believes the statue could attract rock fans from around the world. “People are calling this place Burslemmy. His legacy could save this place,” she said.
Other developments, such as the promotion of Port Vale football team to League One, offer a glimmer of hope. Retail worker Rob Hassall remains skeptical but acknowledges the potential for change. “Perhaps things are changing. Port Vale is very important to the area,” he said.
A Town Rebuilding Its Identity
Burslem’s story is one of resilience and transformation. While the challenges are significant, the community continues to look for ways to revive its historic charm and economic vitality. From the legacy of its pottery industry to the influence of music icons like Robbie Williams and Lemmy, Burslem’s past is deeply intertwined with its future. As the town navigates these changes, the hope remains that it can reclaim its place as a vibrant and thriving community.
