Stockroom in Stockport, which officially opened its doors in May 2025, has swiftly established itself as a dynamic and welcoming cornerstone for the entire community. This ambitious project transformed previously disused retail spaces within the Merseyway Shopping Centre into a multifaceted venue. It was developed in close collaboration with local people and the creative community. Creating a vibrant communal resource designed to foster creativity, learning, and social connection for everyone.
Its purpose is to breathe new life into the heart of Stockport, providing a place where people can make noise, meet friends, find peace, play, learn new skills, and attend a diverse array of events. This extensive centre reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban regeneration, demonstrating how once-vacant commercial spaces can be reimagined into thriving public assets that genuinely serve the needs and aspirations of a diverse population.
The journey of Stockroom began with a bold vision: to create a contemporary cultural and community destination that would energize Stockport's town centre. The transformation of these retail units was not merely a renovation but a complete reimagining of space. The architects and designers worked to create an environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, capable of accommodating a wide range of activities simultaneously.
The choice to locate Stockroom within the Merseyway Shopping Centre was strategic, aiming to draw people back into the retail heart of the town, creating a synergistic effect where shopping, leisure, and learning intertwine. The development process involved extensive community engagement, ensuring that the final design and offerings truly reflected what the people of Stockport wanted and needed from such a centre. This collaborative approach from conception to completion has instilled a strong sense of ownership and pride among local residents.
Stockroom is much more than just a building; it's a bustling ecosystem of resources and experiences. Its design thoughtfully integrates various functions, making it a true destination that encourages exploration and participation. Each area within Stockroom has been meticulously designed to maximise its potential, providing both dedicated spaces for specific activities and flexible zones that can adapt to different needs.
At the very heart of Stockroom lies its brand-new, state-of-the-art library. This isn't just a quiet place for reading; it's a vibrant, contemporary hub for knowledge, research, and community engagement. Designed with bright, open spaces and comfortable seating, the library invites visitors to linger and explore. Its extensive collection goes far beyond traditional books, encompassing digital resources, audiobooks, and a wide array of periodicals, catering to diverse interests and learning styles.
The library offers numerous dedicated zones: quiet study areas for focused work, communal tables for group collaboration, and relaxed seating for casual reading. Regular events like author talks, book clubs, and literary workshops are staples of its calendar, fostering a love of reading and intellectual discussion within the community.
The integration of modern technology means easy access to online databases, public computers with internet access, and printing facilities, ensuring that everyone has the tools they need for learning and communication. This facility redefines the role of a public library in the 21st century, making it an active and dynamic centre for lifelong learning and personal growth.
Recognising the profound importance of early childhood development, Stockroom features a dedicated Children's Creative Learning Space. This area is a riot of colour, sound, and interactive exhibits, specifically designed to ignite young imaginations and encourage playful learning. It's a safe and stimulating environment where children can freely explore, experiment, and discover.
The space is equipped with a variety of hands-on activities, from building blocks and sensory play stations to interactive digital displays and art supplies. Regular storytelling sessions, puppet shows, and creative workshops are scheduled throughout the week, led by experienced educators who facilitate learning through play. This dedicated zone fosters critical skills like problem-solving, fine motor development, and social interaction, all while making learning an exciting adventure. It provides a vital resource for families, offering a nurturing environment where children can thrive and parents can connect.
In an increasingly digital world, Stockroom provides essential cutting-edge learning and IT facilities. These resources are designed to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals with the skills necessary for modern life and employment. The facilities include multiple computer workstations equipped with the latest software, high-speed internet access, and assistive technologies to ensure inclusivity.
Beyond basic computer access, Stockroom offers a robust programme of digital literacy workshops, ranging from beginner courses on internet navigation and email to more advanced sessions on coding, graphic design, and online safety. These workshops cater to all ages, from young people keen to explore technology to adults looking to enhance their professional skills or simply stay connected. The availability of these resources makes Stockroom a crucial hub for personal development, career advancement, and community connection in the digital age.
The Stockroom Studios are truly the dynamic heartbeat of the entire centre, a highly versatile and multi-purpose events space that pulsates with activity throughout the year. Designed with flexibility in mind, this area can transform to host an incredibly diverse range of cultural and community programming. Its adaptable layout and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment make it suitable for intimate gatherings and larger public events alike.
Stockroom Interview
The Studios' calendar is packed with a rich tapestry of activities, ensuring there's always something to engage every interest. From invigorating yoga and fitness classes that promote physical well-being to lively toddler play sessions that provide a safe and fun environment for the youngest visitors, the space caters to a broad demographic.
Culturally, it hosts captivating literature readings, engaging panel discussions, vibrant live music performances spanning various genres, and uproarious stand-up comedy nights. This constant churn of events makes Stockroom a vital cultural destination, enriching the lives of Stockport residents by providing access to high-quality entertainment and opportunities for personal enrichment right on their doorstep.
Adding to the welcoming atmosphere, the Mercado Café Bar offers a perfect spot for relaxation and socialisation within Stockroom. Operated by the highly-rated Didsbury-based Mercado, the café provides a comfortable and inviting environment for visitors to unwind. Its menu features a delicious selection of freshly brewed coffees, specialty teas, light meals, and snacks, all crafted with quality ingredients.
The café serves as a natural meeting point, a place where friends can gather for a chat, families can take a break between activities, or individuals can simply enjoy a moment of peace. Its presence enhances the overall visitor experience, turning Stockroom into a holistic destination where cultural enrichment, learning, and social connection seamlessly intertwine. The warm ambiance and friendly service make it an integral part of the Stockroom experience.
For those with a keen interest in local heritage and history, Stockroom proudly houses Stockport's Historical Archives. This dedicated section is a treasure trove of the town's past, meticulously preserving documents, photographs, maps, and other artefacts that tell the story of Stockport and its people. It serves as a vital resource for researchers, local historians, students, and anyone curious about the area's rich heritage.
The archives are not just for specialists; they are designed to be accessible to the general public. Regular exhibitions and interactive displays showcase different aspects of Stockport's history, bringing the past to life in engaging ways. Dedicated staff are on hand to assist visitors with their research, providing guidance and expertise. This commitment to preserving and sharing local history ensures that future generations can connect with their roots and understand the unique journey of their town.
A foundational principle guiding Stockroom's development was the commitment to creating a truly inclusive and welcoming design. Every aspect of the centre has been thoughtfully considered to ensure accessibility and comfort for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Wide corridors, accessible restrooms, lifts, and clear signage are standard features, facilitating ease of navigation for everyone.
Beyond physical accessibility, the atmosphere itself is designed to be inviting and non-intimidating. The use of natural light, warm colour palettes, and comfortable furnishings contributes to a relaxed and open environment. A particularly special touch is the incorporation of locally created elements, such as custom-made benches and a heartwarming "Chosen Family Album" wall featuring photographs submitted by local residents. These unique, community-driven features infuse the space with a distinct Stockport identity and foster a deeper sense of belonging among visitors, truly making Stockroom a space for everyone.
Since its opening in May 2025, Stockroom has quickly transcended its role as a mere facility; it has become a vibrant central point for community gathering, participation, and enrichment. The immediate embrace of the centre by local residents has been overwhelming, demonstrating a clear demand for such a dynamic public space.
The continuous flow of regular programming is testament to its success. Activities like "Dungeon Crawlers" appeal to younger audiences interested in tabletop gaming and imaginative play. "Children's Storytime" and "Lego Club" provide consistent, engaging activities for families, fostering creativity and literacy from a young age. "Family Foodie Fridays" offer a relaxed setting for community connection over shared meals. These scheduled events provide structure and routine, encouraging regular visits and building a sense of community.
Furthermore, Stockroom is not just about leisure and culture; it also plays a crucial role in personal and economic development. Initiatives like workshops for aspiring entrepreneurs, forming part of the "Build a Business" programme, equip local individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to start or grow their ventures. These programmes demonstrate Stockroom's commitment to supporting the local economy and empowering its citizens with practical skills.
The centre’s impact extends beyond its immediate programming. By drawing thousands of visitors into the Merseyway Shopping Centre, Stockroom has reinvigorated footfall, contributing to the broader economic health of the town centre. It acts as a catalyst for other businesses, creating a more vibrant and appealing urban environment. It offers a safe, accessible, and inspiring space for people of all ages to meet, learn, create, and participate in cultural life.
In essence, Stockroom stands as a powerful testament to the value of investing in cultural and community spaces. It has successfully transformed previously vacant areas into a thriving hub that not only brings people into the heart of Stockport but also significantly enriches the lives of its residents through diverse opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection. It embodies a forward-looking vision for urban centres, proving that cultural and community assets can be powerful engines for social cohesion and revitalization. Stockroom is more than just a building; it is a living, breathing testament to Stockport's creativity, community spirit, and dynamic energy, providing a vital resource that will serve its people for generations to come.
Monday: 10am - 5pm
Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
Wednesday: 10am - 7pm
Thursday: 10am - 7pm
Friday: 10am - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 5pm
Sunday: 11am - 4pm
Stockroom stands as a testament to the power of investing in cultural and community spaces. It has successfully transformed previously vacant areas into a thriving hub that not only brings people into the heart of Stockport but also significantly enriches the lives of its residents through diverse opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection.
