Work has begun on a new Culture Hub at Wythenshawe Civic, launching the first phase of a £500 million regeneration programme led by Manchester City Council and placemaker Muse.

The venue is intended to boost opportunities for local artists, creative groups and organisations, offering residents access to both professional and grassroots culture in an inclusive setting.

Plans include ground-floor food and drink spaces, with the first floor set to host a mix of artist studios and flexible areas for workshops, exhibitions, classes and community events. A 40-seater cinema room, added in response to community feedback, will form part of the offer.

On the second floor, a 200-seat performance space will cater for a wide range of shows, from dance and drama to music and contemporary art. The Culture Hub is due to complete in 2027 and forms part of the first phase of the Civic refresh, supported by £20m from the UK Government and a further £11.9m from the Council.

In December, three planning applications were submitted for 422 new affordable homes across the town centre. Subject to approval, Alpha House, C2 The Birtles and Brotherton House will deliver a mix of townhouses and apartments for social rent, built to high energy-efficiency standards and featuring green spaces to support health and wellbeing.

These homes are the initial housing element of a wider masterplan proposing up to 2,000 new homes over the next 10 to 15 years.

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