Businesses on and around the regenerated King Street, Pinnington Lane and Sir Tony Lloyd Square in Stretford are giving their new surroundings the thumbs-up.
Some have moved units, others are longer-established – but all are happy and excited with the smart new vibe of the town centre taking shape.
Bruntwood and Trafford Council are partway through an ambitious remodelling programme that will include closing the mall to make way for a new public park and housing.
The heart of the town – which has much-loved community assets including Stretford Public Hall and Victoria Park – remains a work in progress.
However, the transformation so far has drawn national plaudits, and a coveted Pineapple Award for the innovative layout and landscaping of Kingsway and a nomination for another one.
Traders are reporting increasing numbers of shoppers and leisure seekers as more retailers and other businesses move in.
Becky Tugwell, manager at Costa, said:
“We’ve been in our new unit since October last year and the difference is huge. Now all the current phase of roadworks are done, Stretford feels much more accessible. People come here by bike or on foot. There are lots of runners around.
“Our customers love the new unit with its big windows. You can people watch and see everything that’s going on. We have a real community vibe – we see all the same people, the same faces.”
Meanwhile, Fountain Records is enjoying more footfall in its new position on King Street, with music fans from all over the world calling in.
Owner Nigel Young, who is pictured with colleague Mark Golden, said:
“Retail has changed in the 10 years since I opened up, but there are still people who want to come to a record shop and look at what they are buying.
“Stretford has changed too. There’s a point where the town was looking tired and shops were closing but there’s more money around now than there used to be. My customers come from all over – from America, from Australia. Wherever music fans are in the world, wherever they are visiting, they will always find a record shop.”
Clay Studios, which runs pottery classes, moved onto King Street in 2024 as the area took shape. Stephen Graham, director, said:
“We came here because we wanted a bigger space and the transport connections here are so good, with the trams and the buses.
“We’ve felt part of a great community from the start – there are lots of people around here who are creative and enthusiastic about what we offer. Our courses tend to fill up quickly, especially learning to throw on a potter’s wheel.”
As the programme continues, and more improvements are completed, Bruntwood and the Council thank the community for its patience.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said:
“The transformation of Stretford is a long process but together with local people and businesses, we are creating a town centre that wills serve the community, and visitors, really well for many years to come.
“This vision ties in with the Council’s objectives to foster a thriving economy and good quality leisure and culture opportunities for all.”