A New Free Wall for Street Art in Hanley City Centre
Art Jam 2025 - Located outside the bus station.
The hoarding surrounding the former Hanley bus station area is set to become a new canvas for local artists and creatives, with permission now in place for the space to be used as a free wall.
Located across areas including Upper Lichfield Street, Birch Terrace, Charles Street and Old Hall Street, the hoarding has been authorised as a free wall by Stoke-on-Trent Business Improvement District (BID), in conjunction with Stoke-on-Trent City Council. The space is now being sub-managed by Hustlers of Culture.
The free wall provides an opportunity for artists to create, experiment and add colour to an area of the city centre while plans for its future redevelopment take shape.
It is understood that the hoarding will remain a legal space for artwork until the City Centre masterplan gets underway and the site is prepared for redevelopment. Until that time, artists are welcome to paint on the currently black hoarding.
Artwork can be created seven days a week, with artists encouraged to work during daylight hours for their own safety and to be mindful of other people using the area.
Keeping the Space Open and Legal
As a free wall, the space operates under a number of conditions. Artwork must not be offensive, overtly sexual, racist or political in nature. Any work that breaches these conditions, or similar requirements, could result in permission for the free wall being withdrawn and the space no longer being available for legal artwork.
Artists are also asked to follow a simple rule of street art etiquette: don't cover artwork you can't better. Respecting work already on the wall will help ensure the space remains a positive and welcoming environment for the creative community.
Visitors and artists are asked to act sensibly, remain aware of the public and take all litter away with them or dispose of it appropriately.
Parking is available close to the free wall via pay and display facilities. Parking is not free, and the postcode ST1 3JN can be used for Sat Nav directions.
The free wall offers an exciting opportunity for artists to make their mark on Hanley while the city centre continues to evolve. Whether you're an established street artist or simply looking to get creative, the space is open for you to bring your ideas to the wall.
For queries about the free wall, please visit the Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID website or Hustlers of Culture.
