Funding totalling £2.3 million has been secured from the government to create a multi-purpose 'Vale Park Community Campus' in Burslem. 

The redevelopment in and around Sproson Park aims to reclaim and revitalise the green space surrounding Vale Park Stadium, laying the foundation for a multi-use area.

The city council says the project will include the redevelopment of two youth football pitches for boys and girls, a multi-use games area suitable for children with special educational needs and disabilities, padel courts, walking trails, and improved CCTV, lighting and signage.  

The plans also include the creation of a new community hub building that will be operated by Port Vale Foundation to deliver community activities for people of all ages.

The project is being organised by Port Vale FC, Port Vale Foundation and Stoke-on-Trent City Council. 

Carol Shanahan OBE, Port Vale FC co-owner and chair said: "This is more than just a park upgrade; it's a catalyst for positive change in the Burslem community.

"We are creating a place where people can be active, connect with others, and feel proud of their local area. 

"The campus will provide a platform for long-term community activity, health support, and wellbeing opportunities across all ages and abilities, whilst obviously creating a better community connection to Port Vale FC." 

Cllr Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: "It is a transformational project that will bring so many benefits to the community in terms of health, leisure and potential employment opportunities. 

"It also forms part of wider regeneration projects taking place in the north of the city, including multi-million-pound public realm work in Burslem and Tunstall town centres." 

A key part of the plan is the comprehensive ecological improvements and sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) that will be put in place to ensure the project exceeds green standards to protect the environment.  

The project is being led by Sports Development Consultancy STRI, who have now begun work on-site with extensive surveys and environmental assessments. 

Their role includes the full planning, design, and delivery of the site, working closely with the project's governance group made up of representatives from the club, the Foundation, and the city council. 

STRI's Development Director James Podesta added: "With surveys and masterplanning work in full flow, we're looking forward to sharing updates with fans and the wider community as we progress."  

The city council says design, planning and consultation works are underway, with further details regarding engagement events to be released in the coming months.