Stockroom opens as the North West’s boldest new cultural destination

Stockport’s boldest new cultural destination has officially opened its doors, marking a major milestone for the town and ushering in a new era of creativity, connection, and community. 

Hundreds gathered for the launch event, including residents, community groups, artists, performers, and civic leaders, to celebrate the transformation of formerly vacant retail units into Stockroom — a dynamic new space that combines a modern library, children’s learning zones, Stockport’s historical archives, a café bar, and the exciting new Stockroom Studios.

As a major opening within the UKs largest town centre regeneration, Stockroom represents a key investment in culture, opportunity and inclusive growth. Its opening weekend features powerful exhibitions such as Chosen Family Album, a community-led portrait project, alongside digital art displays, performances and family-friendly creative activities that brought the space to life.  The launch weekend also included a headline set from legendary DJ Mr Scruff.

Backed by the Future High Streets Fund and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Stockroom is a flagship part of Stockport Council’s regeneration programme, recognised as one of the boldest in the country. It sits alongside major investment in housing, transport, active travel, and public realm, and reinforces Stockport’s growing national reputation as a town that delivers. 

The launch also builds on the success of other trailblazing projects like Stok and the Merseyway Innovation Centre—transforming once-vacant retail spaces into thriving hubs of business, creativity, and community. 

Cllr Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, said:

“Stockroom is one of the boldest and most ambitious post-retail regeneration projects in the North West—turning the tide on town centre decline and proving that culture, community, and creativity can lead the way. 

“This launch wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting—it was a celebration of Stockport’s spirit, talent and potential. Seeing hundreds of people come together to explore, perform, and connect in this new space was genuinely inspiring. 

“Stockroom is more than a building—it’s a statement of intent. It shows what we can achieve when we back our people, invest in the heart of our high streets, and create places where everyone can belong. 

“I’d urge everyone to come down, experience it for themselves and be part of this next chapter in Stockport’s story. Whether you’re here to learn, make, relax or create—Stockroom is for you.” 

Cllr Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member Communities, Culture and Public Protection, said:

“This is Stockport’s moment. Stockroom isn’t just a building—it’s a statement. It’s one of the most ambitious culture-led regeneration projects in the country, turning empty high street units into a living, breathing space full of energy, creativity and community. 

“We’ve transformed vacant shops into a new kind of destination—a place where you can learn a new skill, explore local history, catch a gig, or just grab a coffee and feel inspired. 

“Stockroom shows what happens when councils dare to do things differently. It puts Stockport right at the forefront of town centre transformation—not someday, but right now.” 

Stockroom is now open to the public with a diverse calendar of events and activities planned throughout the year.