Stockort 8 site repurposed as studio space ahead of redevelopment

A vacant building in Stockport town centre has been given a new lease of life as part of Stockport Council and Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation’s (MDC) drive to put people at the heart of their regeneration. 

The building is situated in an area that will be developed as part of Stockport 8 – a new, sustainable neighbourhood that was recently granted planning permission. Rather than not being used for several years, GRIT Studios – a local organisation providing much-needed affordable studio space to Greater Manchester artists – will take over the building. 

GRIT Studios will occupy Kingston House on Kingston Street until construction on Stockport 8 begins, offering artists and makers a much-needed workshop base in the town. A line-up of community events will also be on offer, while a mural will be painted to brighten up the area. 

The lease marks GRIT Studios’ second studio opening in Stockport, enabling them to host another 30 local creatives. The initiative ensures the current premises better serves the community during the interim period of Stockport 8 being built, aligning with MDC’s commitment to people-focused regeneration.

Cllr Michaela Meikle, Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Skills, said:

“We’re thrilled to welcome GRIT Studios to the interim Stockport 8 site. This opportunity not only activates the space in a meaningful way, but also supports local talent and fosters a sense of community ahead of the neighbourhood’s next chapter. 

“It’s imperative that we put people first throughout the process of our town centre regeneration and maximise the potential for social value in our projects. We’ve made this space available to ensure Stockport can continue to remain an affordable hub for local creatives to flourish.” 

Following a market testing exercise, GRIT, along with their space partner, East Street Art – a charity which provides essential workspace, resources, professional support and opportunities for artists and artists’ spaces across the UK – were chosen. The Screwfix Foundation, in partnership with Volunteer It Yourself (VIY), supported GRIT Studios with the refurbishment to make way for artist pods. 

John Macaulay, who runs GRIT Studios with his wife Sophie, said:

“We’re incredibly excited to announce the opening of our 4th GRIT Studios space in Greater Manchester, marking another big step in our mission to support grassroots creatives across the region. 

“We’re looking forward to providing affordable studio space for another 30 local creatives and getting to know our new neighbours in Stockport. In a time when artists are being priced out of city centres and creative spaces are under threat, we remain committed to championing local talent and giving them the resources they need to flourish. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey.” 

Stockport 8 is one of the UK’s largest town centre regeneration projects and plays a key part in the MDC’s wider £1 billion Town Centre West regeneration strategy in delivering new homes, public spaces and unlocking economic opportunities.  

Located on land either side of King Street West and next to the historic viaduct, the £350m mixed residential neighbourhood, including 82 affordable properties under phase 1, will breathe life back into what was once a thriving area under the railway arches, connecting Stockport Interchange with nearby communities. The plans will deliver approximately 1,300 new high-quality homes to suit existing residents and new homeowners moving into the Greater Manchester town in the next decade. There will be a mix of residential properties, including build-to-rent and owner-occupier, with a range of sizes to meet the needs of different households.  

The development is also centred around vibrant public spaces where people can meet and relax outdoors, improving the wellbeing of residents, and with a pedestrian-only street running through the centre to encourage interaction. 

The development is being delivered in partnership with ECF—a joint venture between Homes England, Muse, and L&G—with the first phase due to start on site in 2026 and complete in 2028, with the next phase expected to commence in 2029.