New Century Hall, a Grade II listed building within the 20 acre NOMA neighbourhood, has undergone a £10m transformation and will reopen this summer as ‘New Century’, a live music, performance and events space for Manchester.
The venue, situated between Victoria Station and Shudehill, will also house an eclectic mix of independent kitchens and a creative college. Each aspect, spread across three floors, will focus on nurturing talent, developing skills, and creating opportunities. This will be an exciting new community as Manchester’s talent, education, live events and hospitality industries come together in one creative space.
Previously, the building, owned by The Co-op group, was a well-used conference and exhibitions centre whilst moonlighting as a dance hall and music venue by night. In the 1960’s and 70’s it played a key part in Manchester’s rich pop culture heritage, hosting legendary acts including Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, The Bee Gees and Tina Turner. It went on to host famous club nights in the 80’s.
New Century will build on that legacy to create an extraordinary new live music and events hall for Manchester. Stunning original features are being restored such as the venue’s original sprung dance floor, incredible 60s ‘disco ceiling’ and vintage wood panelled walls. The unique venue embodies Manchester’s independent spirit and musical heritage, and its latest incarnation will feature a flexible layout and a stand-out PA system. With a capacity of more than 800, the Hall will be a multipurpose event space for both global touring artists and emerging talent, as well as a venue for comedy, performance, conferences and community events.
On the ground floor, with seating for up to 300 people, will be the 10,000 sq ft New Century Kitchen with five independent food operators trading alongside permanent ‘New Century’ pizza and coffee concepts.
A central bar and entertainment space will create a constantly evolving all-day social hub night. A vibrant drinks menu will feature local beers, wines, creative cocktails as well as artisan coffees, teas, juices and smoothies. The space is designed to inspire creativity and collaboration - a meeting place where the best food, drink and ideas flow. New Century Kitchen will spill outside onto Sadler’s Yard for al fresco dining, drinking and regular events.
Access Creative College (ACC), one of the UK’s most exciting education providers, will be based downstairs in the basement. With a successful music, games and media college already on Oxford Road, New Century will be home to ACC's third site in the city. ACC is an established national college which specialises in kick starting careers in the creative industry - Ed Sheeran is one of its alumni and is now a Patron. The new state of the art creative campus will include a media centre, production pods and the opportunity to experience work in a live venue within the same building.
Taking inspiration from the trailblazing spirit of the 1960s when the building was developed, New Century will celebrate the past to inspire an exciting new chapter - an everyday place for unforgettable experiences. It is expected to re-open in Summer 2022.
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Also read: MANCHESTER'S ICONIC MUSIC VENUE, BAND ON THE WALL, TO REOPEN AFTER £3.5M EXPANSION