'Creative hub': MMU students set up shop in Stockport Market Place as part of Portas Pilot scheme
Arts graduates will be showcasing their crafty wares in Stockport later this year as part of the town’s Portas Pilot.
Manchester Metropolitan University is offering exhibition space and business incubation facilities, at 18 and 19 Market Place, to graduates in architecture, art and design.
A gallery space and a ‘shop front’ on the ground floor will be provided so graduates can exhibit and sell their products.
Councillor Iain Roberts, Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said he was excited at the potential of the enterprise.
He said: “This innovative scheme will not only support small businesses, but attract all different types of people to the town centre.
“This will drive footfall, bring a bit of a buzz to the area and get people talking about Stockport.
“I’m really interested to see how this project develops and grows – it will definitely bring something a bit special to the Market Place.”
This enthusiasm is shared by Professor Tom Jefferies, Head of the Manchester School of Architecture at MMU.
He said: “This project is one-of-a-kind and is a real opportunity to work with Stockport to offer something completely different.
“With this project we are bringing creative industries to the high street. We will develop a creative hub which will really involve and interest both local people and visitors.
“We see this as a new space for creative practice in Stockport and part of our wider commitment to keeping design talent in the region.”
Refurbishment works will take place over the summer and the project will be up and running later this year.
For more information on Stockport’s Portas Pilot visit www.stockport.gov.uk/portaspilot
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