Underbanks transformation unlocks new opportunities for independent businesses

The transformation of Stockport’s Underbanks into one of Greater Manchester’s most vibrant independent quarters has continued with a raft of new openings, restorations and residential developments.

The area – once dubbed “Stockport’s Soho”– has seen £7million of investment through Stockport Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, alongside strong partnerships with developers, local businesses, and the wider community.

Over the past year alone:

• 12 new apartments and two new shopfronts are in development at 25–29 Little Underbank following demolition works.
• St Mary’s Gate, by Hall & Co, has delivered 50 new apartments in the heart of the town centre.
• Sticky Fingers, a much-loved Market Hall favourite, is expanding into 39 Great Underbank, joining new arrivals like Bruk, a self-funded wine bar from local entrepreneurs, and By Yon Orange, a new café on Great Underbank.
• St Ann’s Hospice has benefited from a refreshed frontage to their charity store at 33 Great Underbank after sensitive restoration.
• Not Just, named one of the UK’s top 10 barbers by The Guardian, has opened its first Stockport branch at 35-37 Great Underbank – bringing its Manchester reputation to the Underbanks.

The former RBS building has also been brought back to life by new venue Underbank, adding even more choice to the area’s growing food and drink scene. A new chip shop will soon open next to Alfredo’s, while the building below multi-award-winning restaurant Where The Light Gets In is currently undergoing restoration with more details to be revealed in the coming months.

The energy was on full display during Stock Party, which returned in June for its second year. Despite the wet weather, thousands attended to enjoy live music, art and street food – reinforcing the Underbanks’ status as one of the most creative corners of the North West.

Cllr Micheala Meikle, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said:

“We’re proud to be at the forefront of regeneration across Greater Manchester, and the progress we’ve made in the Underbanks is a testament to that.

“More businesses and developers are choosing Stockport and the Underbanks as the place to set up or relocate, contributing to the town’s thriving economy. As part of our ambitious plans for the town centre, we’re committed to supporting local businesses, and we encourage everyone to shop local—it’s a vibrant, one-of-a-kind destination and well worth a visit. To be recognised nationally by such esteemed publications as The Times reinforces the fact that we are getting it right.”

As the final year of capital investment gets underway, more developments are planned, including:

• The demolition of Russell Morley House to make way for future projects.
• Upgrades at 4–6 Little Underbank and 41–43 Great Underbank, as well as new schemes at 32–36 Lower Hillgate, opposite the Brewery.

The regeneration of the Underbanks is part of the council’s wider ambition to create a town centre that blends heritage, culture and enterprise – with projects like Stockroom, Merseyway Innovation Centre and the Interchange and Viaduct Park transforming Stockport’s future while celebrating its past.