Stockport's new library and cultural centre opens
Stockroom - Stockport's new library and events space - opens today (Saturday 24 May).
It's based on the Merseyway high street, in what was once vacant retail units (formerly Topshop and Mothercare).
Visitors will be able to peruse the library, enjoy the cafe, and explore the building from 10am this morning.
There will also be a huge range of events taking place at Stockroom over the weekend - including music from legendary DJ Mr Scruff.
Find the full events programme here.
Stockroom boasts a beautiful open plan layout, with a huge range of areas which make the space perfect for socialising, quiet study, and everything in between.
It's accessible from two sides; from the Merseyway high street and from Great Underbank.
Downstairs is a cafe, an events space, the fiction section, and a children's area.
On the upper floor is the non-fiction section, the library archives, and another events space.
Joining the two floors is a lift and a commanding staircase which offers views over the whole ground floor.
Throughout, Stockroom has been stylishly decorated with furniture, artwork, and little embellishments - much of it made by local residents.
In just one corner of the building, for example, you'll find benches made by local youngsters, a wall of family photographs submitted by Stopfordians, and a mycelium sculpture featuring fungi from Woodbank park.
In a preview event on Friday, a talented young group of local poets gave some inaugural readings, in what was Stockroom's first official performance.
They're sure to be the first among many future poets and artists to muse and find inspiration within Stockroom's walls.
Cllr Mark Roberts, leader of Stockport Council, also spoke at the preview event.
"Stockroom is a shining example of what we can achieve when we invest in creativity, community, and connection, and what we can achieve when we work together", he said.
"It's been years in the making, with many key contributions from many different people across many political parties. [...]
"This isn't just a building. It's a celebration of our town and the people who make it special.
"This space will grow with you. Our residents, our families, artists, community groups - you are the main characters in this tale. Stockroom belongs to all of you. And I can't wait to see how you make it your own."
Speaking to Nub News at the event, Cllr Roberts added: "Stockroom is a place built by the people of Stockport, for the people of Stockport.
"It breathes life into the high street. I think it brings a different demographic of people to Stockport. Our high streets are more than just shopping - it's becoming a destination.
"I think Stockroom is a great example of what libraries can be and could be in the future. I know we've got people from across the country looking at Stockroom, and how we've delivered it the way we have."
Cllr David Meller, former leader of the council's Labour group, also said: "I'm absolutely delighted we're finally here. This is a big moment for Stockport, for the town centre, and for me personally.
"It's going to bring footfall into the town centre, and importantly it's a modern facility that people nearby can access for free.
"It's going to be incredible. I couldn't be prouder of the officers at the council, the architects, the interior designers, the residents who helped put this all together. It's a really proud day."
Stockroom has been funded by a £14.5m grant from the government's Future High Streets Fund - plans were first approved in 2021.
After four years in the making, it's got an exciting future ahead.
Find more information about Stockroom here.
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