Work to reopen a Stoke-on-Trent road which has been closed for six months is finally set to begin next week. 

Westport Road in Burslem was closed after an arson attack on the former Wade Ceramics factory on April 27 due to the building being 'unsafe'. 

Now the council leader has confirmed the owner of the building, Miller Homes, is set to begin working on the site on Wednesday 15 September. 

Speaking at a full council meeting, Cllr Ashworth said: "Westport Road in Burslem will reopen very shortly because the Wade's building that was partially burnt down will be dealt with by its owners Miller Homes, starting on 15 September. 

Large parts of the roof at the former Wade Ceramics factory have collapsed. (Nub News)

"It will take as long as it takes to deal with that site but the minute it is made safe we will reopen the road for public use"

Cllr Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council had previously told Nub News that the building's owner had been in talks with the council about a demolition plan but it is currently unclear if the entire building will be pulled down. 

Speaking in July, Cllr Ashworth said: "On Wednesday [9 July] we are expecting the next letter from them confirming their legal department agrees the building needs to come down." 

It is understood delays in the process have been due to the building being grade-II listed meaning the plans need to be within Historic England guidelines to avoid legal challenges on the land owner.