From reimagined historic buildings and thriving independent businesses to packed public spaces and a boroughwide programme of cultural activity, Stockport has quietly become one of the most confident and creative towns in the country.
Over recent years, culture has been at the heart of Stockport’s transformation, building pride and bringing communities together. Arts, heritage and creativity are woven into everyday life, supporting wellbeing, learning and economic vitality across the borough.
This was most visible during Stockport’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, which saw cultural activity take place across neighbourhoods, town centre venues and public spaces. Local talent was celebrated, new audiences were welcomed, and partnerships between artists, cultural organisations, community groups and businesses were strengthened.
A flagship legacy of this work is Stockroom, Stockport’s new creative and cultural hub in the heart of the town centre. Since opening in May last year, Stockroom has welcomed around 100,000 visits a month, inviting people of all ages to explore Stockport’s collections and archives, take part in creative activity, attend events and spend time in a welcoming civic space. With a year-round programme of inclusive events and activities, it has quickly become a focal point for cultural life in the borough,
Recent visitors have commented:
“Wow – what a place! It really is something else. It’s very accessible for wheelchair users too. For mum’s not to bring their children here – the kids are missing out massively.”
“Stockroom has been a gamechanger for us. As a space, it’s not only flexible and well-equipped, but it also has a welcoming atmosphere that immediately puts young people at ease. It’s rare to find a town-centre location that feels so accessible and inclusive, and Stockroom proved to be the perfect platform for engaging and inspiring the next generation.” Solomon Onaolapo, Director, Rising Stars
Together, these successes tell a clear story: Stockport is a place where culture is already doing the work it promises to do, energising the town centre, supporting young people, improving wellbeing and strengthening the borough’s identity. Against that backdrop, people have increasingly been asking whether Stockport will take the next step and bid for UK Town of Culture — and that’s exactly what the council and our partners are now exploring. The opportunity would allow Stockport to build on proven success, deepen partnerships and open up even more opportunities for residents, creatives and communities across the borough.
A UK Town of Culture bid would also create opportunities to attract external funding and investment into the borough. At a time when council finances are under pressure, national cultural programmes can help bring in new resources, partnerships and profile — supporting local ambition while maximising the impact of every pound spent.
As plans develop, we're asking residents to help shape what a future UK Town of Culture bid could look like. We are keen to hear what people value about Stockport, what makes the borough distinctive, how culture is experienced in everyday life, what feels missing, and the activities, places and experiences that matter most to them.
Share your views by completing the engagement form.
Councillor Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council
Stockport’s transformation shows the power of culture to shape places and bring communities together. From our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture to the opening of Stockroom, we’ve seen first-hand how creativity can energise our town and build pride across the borough. Bidding for UK Town of Culture is about taking that momentum even further, putting Stockport firmly on the national stage and setting out an ambitious vision for the future.
Darren Stannage, Company Manager at NK Theatre Arts
Culture in Stockport isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. In a borough where many grow up in very different circumstances, access to the arts builds resilience, aspiration and pride in young people, creating spaces where background doesn’t define potential and confidence can flourish.
Cultural organisations across the borough are already working hard to widen access and break down barriers. A UK Town of Culture award would help us reach more young people and ensure creativity continues to unite and inspire communities.
Jacqui Wood, Chief Executive at Arc
For many of the people we support, taking part in creative activity is transformational – helping them to feel less isolated, build relationships and take positive steps with their mental health. Culture has a real role to play in developing a sense of belonging and supporting wellbeing across our communities. Placing it at the heart of Stockport’s future plans recognises the difference creative activity can make to people’s lives.
Steve Oliver, Chair of Stockport Economic Alliance
A strong cultural offer plays an important role in shaping the kind of place where businesses can thrive. In Stockport, culture and regeneration are helping to create a town centre that attracts talent, supports innovation and strengthens confidence in the borough as a place to invest and do business.