As most of you will know, Stockport Underbank is currently going through an amazing transformation, but some people are unsure about some of the specific actions being taken. We have brought it upon ourself to share some of the changes happening in an easy and digestible way! There is still a lot of work to do but it is exciting to see the gradual progression of this much loved street! 

1, Ready Setts Go

Currently the setts are being relayed down Underbank to enhance the public realm and clean up the space (electric outlets are even being added to make the space under the bridge more flexible).

2, That’s Lit

New LED street lights have been put into place – they will eventually mirror the traditional lights when the works have been completed. Currently they look like flying saucers! The new lights are however shorter than their predecessors which is a conscious choice to improve the street scene. 

3, Start the Clock

Winter’s is being revamped to include a new restaurant use and the clock and frontage is being returned to its former glory. Many people will remember the fantastic clock working in its past – we are excited to see it once again add an interesting detail to the street. 

4, It’s a Sign

New traditional street signs are being added to replace the preexisting signs that do not match the heritage of the area. The new signs may seem like something not worth mentioning but these small details make a huge impact on the heritage nature of the street! It is the small components that often make the biggest difference.

5, Out with the New in with the Old

Local developers Hall & Co are applying to redevelop a number of sites on Underbank to breathe fresh life into the currently decaying buildings. Two sites, the 60s building on the corner of Mealhouse Brow and the white volunteer services building will be knocked down and redeveloped. The collapsed building next to Rare Mags will be rebuilt from the ground up. Hall & Co have already done a fantastic job of preserving and making use out of Bank Chambers on the Marketplace. We must confess that we are confident in their ability to create some fantastic new additions to Underbank.

6, From Door Tu-dor

Known by the locals as the Tudor Cafe, but more recently Bunga Raya, this building is currently being renovated by the team Inside Property Investing. We’d highly recommend giving them a follow on Instagram to watch the gradual transformation of this empty building. The plans include Airbnb apartments and commercial space on street level.

7, Perfect Harmony

Currently the building that held one of Stockport’s adult shops is going through a thorough renovation. Only last week the building had entirely no roof. There are rumours that the commercial unit will become a bar in the future but that is currently just Stockport whispers. 

8, Keep the Faith

The former Christian Bookshop on Lower Hillgate directly next-door to the Tudor Cafe will be coming forward for redevelopment in 2021. This mock Tudor building stands proudly on the street; returning such a large building back to life will make a huge impact to the street scene. We are excited to see what will pop up in the commercial ground floor unit!

9, kelsALL Happening Here

The Age UK Charity shop building is currently being lovingly restored by Kelsall Architects. The frontage will be reconfigured to match its historic routes and the upper floors to be refurbished into a co-working space and architectural studio. In the future there are also potential plans of adding a rooftop bar. We can only dream! Follow them on Instagram for updates on this project. 

10, Rediscover the Underbanks

Events and activities are being planned for post lockdown, aimed at sharing the history of Underbanks with a wider audience – keep your eye on @underbanks_SK for more info and check out www.rediscoveringtheunderbanks.co.uk