Stockport Council has confirmed plans for a new state-of-the-art Innovation Centre in the heart of Stockport Town Centre, to add to a plethora of recent announcements as part of the Council’s ambitious regeneration plans.
Merseyway Innovation Centre (MIC) will see 15,000 sqft of vacant floorspace on the upper floors of Merseyway Shopping Centre transformed into flexible serviced office and co-working accommodation. This will offer a thriving Innovation Centre where fledgling and small businesses will be supported in their growth plans in a centrally located, flexible and inspirational environment.
Opening Summer 2023, the Innovation Centre will transform the first floor of the former Next store and the adjacent former Metro Gym into fantastic new hub for start-up businesses and entrepreneurs. At full capacity, the Innovation Centre has the potential to accommodate up to 50 new businesses right in the heart of Merseyway.
The Innovation Centre supports the Council’s investment into diversifying the town centre, attracting a wide range of people, whilst also repurposing former retail units.
The scheme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Government funds and Stockport Council. Support from the Arts Council England’s Cultural Development Fund will enhance the digital creative offer.
Cllr Colin MacAlister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “We have a thriving business community in Stockport but this will strengthen our offer and provide that all important support for new and small businesses, providing everything they need for their business to grow and prosper.
“The improvements we are making to the wider Merseyway Shopping Centre will further enhance the area and the new Transport Interchange just across the road will make it even more accessible, allowing more people to take advantage of the fantastic facilities and all our town centre has to offer.”
