Work begins on £2.2m redevelopment of Stockport asset
A building within the town’s conservation area is due to reopen as a creative hub by the middle of next year.
Funded to the tune of £2.2m by Arts Council England, 18-19 Market Place sits within Stockport’s historic core. The building is recognisable for its mock Tudor facade and was most recently used by the University of Manchester as a hub for its arts students.
Under redevelopment plans drawn up by for Stockport Council by Buttress Architects, the building will become “a flexible hub for digital art, creative production, and community engagement”.
It will host events and feature a sculptural staircase as its centrepiece, as well as an exhibition atrium and flexible digital studios.
The scheme forms part of Stockport Council’s Creative Campus Masterplan, which includes Stockroom and Mersey Innovation Centre.
Read more about Stockroom
Cllr Micheala Meikle, cabinet member for economy, regeneration and skills, said: “This project is a game-changer for Stockport, putting our town on the map as a thriving hub for digital arts and creative industries.
“The investment we’ve secured, along with our fantastic partnerships, is creating new opportunities for local people and businesses while preserving the unique character of our historic town centre. We’re excited for what’s to come and look forward to seeing the Creative Campus flourish.”
