Stair cases Stoke Goods Yard

As part of the landmark Goods Yard regeneration project in Stoke-on-Trent, Staco UK was selected to design and manufacture two bespoke external staircases for a new multi-storey commercial development overlooking the Trent & Mersey Canal. The wider development is transforming a former industrial site into a vibrant mixed-use destination featuring residential, commercial, leisure and public spaces.

The Goods Yard development will ultimately provide 174 homes, commercial spaces, hospitality venues and public waterfront areas, creating a new destination at the gateway to Stoke-on-Trent.

The staircases provide a vital connection between the main entrance level and the lower canalside area, creating safe and accessible routes to new public viewing points and outdoor spaces along the waterfront. Designed for a high-traffic public environment, the solution needed to combine safety, durability, functionality and architectural quality.

Stoke Goods Yard

Unique project with specific challenges

Working closely with Shawton Engineering, Staco was tasked with developing a staircase solution that met several important technical requirements.

The staircases needed to deliver:

Excellent slip resistance in all weather conditions
Effective drainage performance
Heel-proof pedestrian safety
Integrated contrasting nosing for improved visibility
A clean architectural appearance
Efficient installation despite varying tread and panel dimensions

Because the staircases form part of a public access route, reducing trip hazards while maintaining a visually consistent finish was a key priority throughout the project.

Our contribution to Stoke Goods Yard

To ensure the most suitable product specification was selected, Staco utilised its in-house load calculation tools and engineering expertise during the design phase.

The chosen solution was Staco’s AP2-30 VMA perforated plank profile, complete with powder-coated angle nosings and risers. This engineered steel plank combines two functional perforation patterns:

5 mm upward-punched holes to provide enhanced slip resistance
5 mm downward-punched holes to ensure efficient water drainage

A unique challenge within the project was the integration of the contrasting nosing profile. To achieve a seamless finish, Staco developed a bespoke manufacturing adaptation whereby the perforation pattern was stopped 60 mm short of the front edge of each tread.

This allowed the powder-coated contrast nosing angle to sit perfectly flush with the perforated surface. The result was a safer staircase design with reduced trip risk, improved visual guidance for users and a refined architectural appearance.

Products Used

AP2-30 VMA perforated planks
Powder-coated contrast angle nosings
Powder-coated risers
Bespoke tread modification for flush nosing integration

Engineering & Manufacturing Expertise

Beyond product selection, Staco’s manufacturing flexibility played an important role in the success of the project.

With multiple panel sizes and staircase components required, each element was carefully planned, organised and packaged to simplify on-site installation. This collaborative approach helped streamline the construction process and ensured the customer could install the system efficiently and accurately.

The project highlights how Staco combines engineering support, product knowledge and bespoke manufacturing capabilities to solve complex design challenges while maintaining high standards of safety and aesthetics.

Our solutions

Our solutions are often part of a larger whole. That is why we like to work with the best partners and architects to make the project a great success. Not only good cooperation, but also the best well-thought-out solutions and products ensure a great end result. That is why we only use our own metal solutions with the right finish to suit your challenge.

Perforated panel 30

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More about this project and end result

The completed staircase solution delivers a safe, durable and visually integrated access route within one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most significant regeneration projects.

By working closely with the customer from design through to manufacture, Staco provided a tailored solution that fulfilled both the technical and architectural ambitions of the development. The project stands as an excellent example of collaborative engineering, demonstrating how bespoke perforated steel solutions can enhance public spaces while meeting demanding performance requirements.

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