The historic high street at the heart of Stretford town centre has officially reopened to the public for the first time in 60 years.
The transformation of King Street marks the completion of phase one of the ambitious regeneration of the town centre, which is being delivered through a joint venture between Bruntwood and Trafford Council, and lays the foundations for the next stages of the Stretford masterplan.
After more than six decades of being enclosed within a mall, the revitalised high street offers more than 86,000 sq ft of new commercial space.
This includes the creation of new space for businesses, independent retailers and hospitality operators, and a first-floor arcade called The Mezz for service-led retailers. Loungers has been confirmed as the first national hospitality brand for Stretford’s new high street, signing for a 5,000 sq ft unit.
At the heart of the regeneration scheme is Sir Tony Lloyd Square – a new south-facing public square named in honour of the late MP.
Chris Roberts, chief development officer at Bruntwood, said: “After over 60 years of closure, King Street has been reinstated as the heart of Stretford town centre, offering a space for independent and national businesses to thrive, and a place for the community to come together.
“As we celebrate this major milestone for Stretford and welcome a mix of occupiers, alongside the local community and visitors, we want to thank the community that has helped us restore this iconic street. This moment is the result of a shared vision with Trafford Council that puts people, enterprise and environment at its heart, and we look forward to continuing to support the council as the transformation of the town centre continues.”
Tom Ross, leader of Trafford Council, added: “I am delighted that the new King Street, Sir Tony Lloyd Square and Pinnington Lane have now opened in Stretford. This is fantastic news and will totally transform the town centre. Working with our partners, Bruntwood, our masterplan was all about creating a thriving high street with a mix of shops and services, hospitality and spaces for the community and we achieved just that. Trafford Council is committed to the regeneration of our town centres and helping provide a thriving economy in the borough.”
King Street’s project team includes Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Exterior Architecture, Avison Young, Civic Engineers, Richard Boothroyd & Associates, Studio MUTT Architects and Caddick.
