Plans unveiled to turn old Oxford Road HATCH site into new ‘entertainment hub’

Exciting plans have been unveiled to create a brand-new “entertainment hub” in the heart of Manchester city centre.

One of the UK’s fastest-growing leisure chains, STACK – which already has several similar successful sites across the country in places such as Newcastle and Sunderland – has announced that it has now taken control of the former HATCH site beneath the flyover on Oxford Road, and will be transforming the space into a “dynamic blend” of street food, bars, and live entertainment.

The proposed new venture, which will be called STACK Manchester, has been designed with a gateway arch entrance from Oxford Road, leading to an expansive open plaza surrounded by street food vendors and bars.

Forming a permanent feature of the Oxford Road Corridor if approved, STACK Manchester will be housed in repurposed shipping containers, and arranged over two levels.

Developers say the design of the new site will incorporate “ample” glazing and pavement seating to create a “lively frontage that connects seamlessly with the street”.

See more

Central to the development is a large stage, which will be a focal point for daily live entertainment that ranges from family-friendly events and quiz nights, to mass sing-alongs and dog shows, and in addition to this, there’ll also be two new outward-facing retail units and a dual-aspect coffee shop.

Former traders from HATCH are encouraged to apply for a place in the new STACK Manchester, and will be given priority during the selection process.

Speaking as the plans for the new development were unveiled this week, Neill Winch, who is the CEO of STACK, commented: “We believe this site is the perfect fit for our concept, and we’re excited to bring our blend of street food, bars, and live entertainment to Manchester.

“Subject to planning approval being granted, we are confident STACK Manchester will become a much-loved venue for local residents as well as a successful visitor attraction.”

Read more:

• Manchester’s HATCH leisure village to close for good
• The historic Wigan mill hosting one of the region’s coolest street food events
• Manchester beloved carvery with bottomless trimmings and gravy returns this week

STACK Manchester is expected to create 160 full and part-time jobs, if approved, as well as offering new opportunities for small businesses to thrive.

Featured Image – STACK