Underbanks round up Feb 2025

The area is thriving thanks to a £7 million investment from Stockport Council, alongside strong partnerships with developers, businesses, and the local community.

In the past year, several exciting projects have been completed, further enhancing the appeal of this iconic area:

• 35-37 Great Underbank was completed in December 2024, with the original brick façade and shopfront reinstated to match its historic design, amongst other improvements. The property is now available for lease through MBRE

• the demolition of 25-29 Great Underbank has paved the way for a new development by Hall & Co Property Developers, which will feature 12 modern apartments and two ground-floor retail units, further boosting the area’s appeal for both commercial and residential spaces

• Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s Greening of Coopers Brow project, funded by the Greater Manchester Green Spaces Fund, introduced a green roof and nature-themed street art, enhancing the area’s biodiversity

Ongoing developments

The momentum continues into 2025, with several exciting projects underway:

• renovations at 33 Great Underbank include shopfront repairs, render restoration, and redecoration. This location will soon house a St Ann’s Hospice charity shop, contributing to the local community

• the Churchgate Development by Hall & Co is progressing well, with 50 modern apartments expected to be completed by Spring 2025

• at 11-13 Lower Hillgate, sensitive external repairs and the reinstatement of historic shopfronts are helping to preserve the area’s architectural heritage

Recent additions

The Underbanks’ has a fantastic reputation as a thriving food and drink destination, with its independent ethos putting the area firmly on the map. Recent openings include The White Lion which reopened in June 2024 after extensive restoration, providing a refreshed venue for socialising. The newly opened wine bar, Bruck, self-funded by local entrepreneurs, adds to the area’s diverse dining scene. Renowned restaurant Where the Light Gets in has received national recognition and was recently crowned the best restaurant at the prestigious Manchester Food and Drink Awards. Meanwhile, pop-up ventures like Little Scarfs, a pasta restaurant, continue to highlight the area’s innovative spirit. Collaborations with Totally Stockport have added to the area with vibrant art installations featuring icons such as Jimi Hendrix and Sarah Harding, with more expected to follow.

Upcoming projects

As the Underbanks enters the final year of its capital project investment, several exciting developments are planned, including:

• the demolition of Russell Morley House by Hall & Co will prepare the site for future development

• works at 4-6 Little Underbank and 41-43 Great Underbank will enhance both the infrastructure and visual appeal of the area, while new developments at 32-36 Lower Hillgate, opposite the Brewery, will further rejuvenate the space

The Underbanks continues to shine through its community-focused spirit, with a full calendar of events. Upcoming highlights include the Live at St Mary’s event and the Stockport Music Story: Strawberry Studios Forever concert on March 31, as well as the Wood Snake art show launch on February 22 at Underbank Studios, which will showcase local talent. Plans are also in place to host more community events and activities.

The Underbanks is also home to an exciting mix of independent shops, quirky boutiques, and one-of-a-kind businesses, each offering something truly unique. From hidden gems to creative spaces, the area boasts an eclectic range of products and services you won’t find anywhere else.

Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Mark Hunter, expressed pride in the area’s achievements: “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.”

The ongoing revitalisation of the Underbanks showcases the council’s commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing the future. With a perfect mix of heritage, culture, and innovation, this cherished area is a must-visit destination for residents and visitors alike.

Follow @Underbanks_SK on social media to stay updated on events and developments.