Theatre proposed for Watson Street arches

Plans have been submitted to Manchester City Council for the conversion of two arches underneath Manchester Central convention complex into a theatre and bar.

The 6,000 sq ft 53two Theatre and bar will be situated in grade-two listed arches 18 and 19. The theatre is set to have a capacity of 175, and the bar of 163.

53two is a charity that runs arts events such as plays and music performances.

The scheme has been designed by Up North Architects.

If granted planning permission, the theatre will sit alongside the six arches holding Manchester Gin Distillery which secured consent in April this year and opened this month.

Ask Real Estate has planning permission to redevelop the neighbouring former Bauer Millett Garage next to the convention complex into apartments and offices.