A Stoke-on-Trent community arts group is planning to convert a former town centre bank into a creative hub. 

The old Longton Barclays building on The Strand was earmarked for development by the Post Office but now Urban Wilderness, organiser of the annual Pig Walk Parade, has taken out a five-year lease on the building. 

The organisation is planning to relocate its activities from its current base at the Longton Exchange into the former bank building, which has been vacant for three years. 

Isla Telford, co-director of Urban Wilderness CIC, said: "This is a lovely building in a great location which is one of the gateways to Longton.

"It has been empty for three years but it's in a reasonable condition. 

"We need to make it accessible so that we can welcome all members of the community."

Urban Wilderness is planning to take over the former Barclays building in Longton. (Supplied)

 Planned improvements include heating upgrades, toilet facilities and accessibility improvements such as a through-lift.

And after initially opening up the ground floor space, Urban Wilderness hopes to create meeting rooms, artists' studios, a bar and a small performance area with a capacity of up to 50 people.

The Post Office says it is still considering moving Longton Post Office from Longton Exchange to the former Barclays Bank location, subject to gaining planning permission, but it's not thought these plans are in conjunction with Urban Wilderness.

Isla added: "We hope to be able to hold some of our activities in the new building in around six months' time and we would be grateful to anyone who is able to help us make this happen."

The organisation is appealing to tradespeople and businesses who may be able to offer skills, materials, time or sponsorship to help transform the building. 

They would also like to hear from local residents and community members about what activities they would like to see in the new space.

To get in touch with suggestions or to help with the redevelopment of the building, you can email [email protected] .