Inside Stockport’s £16 million hangout set to ‘change the town centre’
In the heart of Merseyway shopping centre in Stockport, work is taking place to create a new art and community hangout which could be "the first of its kind" in Greater Manchester.
Known as Stockroom, the centre will include a library, creative spaces, a café bar, and a living room surrounded by a wall of books – the idea is to create somewhere warm and welcoming where people go to meet others or just escape the busy streets.
The space is set to open next year and bosses behind the scheme expect it to become an important arts centre in Stockport and beyond.
"It's not like anything that already exists," says Gwen Riley Jones, the creative programme manager leading the concept when asked to sum up what Stockroom will bring to the town.
"It feels like it's something that's missing from Stockport, a place for anyone that needs a bit of a time out or space to relax, it's a space we don't already have."
Based in a former Mothercare and Topshop store, Stockroom is as much about keeping the town centre busy as it is about art and events.
When ready, it promises a year-round programme, with plans to offer yoga, toddler play, literature, music, stand-up comedy, and more.
It is also somewhere where those struggling might come to find help and advice.
With the town facing a rise in homelessness, Stockroom could be a place to signpost information for those struggling to get by.
"It's crucial that we have activities here for everyone to access, and also events that are paid for so the building can sustain itself," Ms Riley Jones said.
"If someone just needs a chat, that's fine too," she added, pointing out that the space will be open to anyone who needs it.
Funded by the government's Future High Streets Fund, the project was initially expected to cost around £14.5m, but the overall price of the scheme hit more than £16m due to rising inflation, which Stockport council helped to finance
Leaders in the borough's town hall have backed Stockroom to become an important regional hub of culture and art.
Cllr Frankie Singleton, Stockport Council's culture lead, said the space will be "the first of its kind in Greater Manchester."
She added: "Whether you're a local resident, a Greater Manchester visitor, or travelling from further afield, Stockport promises an unforgettable experience with activities for all ages and interests."
Cllr David Meller, leader of Stockport Labour, said: "The whole point around Stockroom as well is to address inequalities within the centre of the borough.
"It'll be more accessible, and have much more to offer than conventional libraries."
While Stockroom is currently a construction site, the layout of the space is already taking shape, and the building is set to open in spring 2025 if all goes to plan.
Council leader Mark Hunter said once ready, it will play an important part in "reshaping the future" of the borough.
He added: "This project represents more than just the transformation of 135,000 sq. ft of vacant retail space; it is symbolic of our bold vision to create a town centre that is not only vibrant and thriving but one that genuinely meets the needs of all our residents."
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