Work is now underway on the next phase of Stockport’s Creative Campus, which will transform 18/19 Market Place into a new hub for creative and cultural organisations in the heart of the town centre.

The building will provide workspace for creative and cultural practitioners and organisations, alongside networking, events and exhibition space designed to encourage collaboration and showcase new work created in Stockport.

The project builds on the first two elements of Stockport’s Creative Campus: Stockroom, which welcomed over 1 million visits in its first year of opening, and Merseyway Innovation Centre, which provides flexible workspace and support for start-ups and growing businesses. Together, they have shown the huge demand in Stockport for creative, cultural and business space in the heart of the town centre. This next phase at 18/19 Market Place will build on that momentum, creating more opportunities for local people and organisations while supporting the continued growth of the high street as a place for culture, enterprise and creativity.

The redevelopment of 18/19 Market Place is being funded through a £2.2 million UK Government capital grant awarded through the second round of the Cultural Development Fund delivered by Arts Council England.

The appointed Principal Contractor, HH Smith, have now commenced works on site, with the project due to complete by mid-2027.

Councillor 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.”

Stockport residents and businesses can look forward to more opportunities as the Creative Campus continues to grow, supporting local talent, creative enterprise and cultural activity across the borough. The project also forms part of the ongoing transformation of Stockport town centre, helping to bring another historic building back into active use.

Further information about opportunities for creative and cultural organisations to occupy space within the new building will be announced in the coming months.