How a failing shopping centre in Greater Manchester became a top night out

It’s the beating heart of Sale town centre.

In fact residents, visitors and architectural experts have all given it glowing feedback.

But it wasn't always like this.

Stanley Square was once a failing and uninspiring 1960s shopping centre called 6 Acre Square. It had oppressive entrance gates, no greenery, a poor public realm and numerous empty units.

In 2020, all that began to change when plans were approved to build the £70m new cultural square.

Now, it’s a thriving centre where residents and visitors shop, eat, drink, work and play, following a public engagement process to rebrand the area. It supports 14 new office units above a mix of independent bars and restaurants and footfall has grown alongside a thriving evening economy.

The regeneration of the centre has led to some to compare the Trafford town to its glamorous neighbouring district Altrincham.

Once known for its shabby, derelict high street, the town has had somewhat of a renaissance in recent years, led by the arrival of Altrincham market.

Stanley Square itself has achieved national acclaim this year when it was shortlisted for a ‘Pineapple’ award by real estate publisher The Developer and Festival of Place. When the Local Democracy Reporting Service visited the area between Christmas and New Year, there was a hugely positive vibe as the festive lights twinkled in the dark night sky.

“There’s never any trouble here,” said the security supervisor of the area around the square. “People come here to relax and enjoy themselves. It’s a really chilled atmosphere.”

As he walked away, he gently admonished two boys on bicycles for riding on the square. “Sorry, lads, you can’t ride your bikes here,” he said. So the boys obediently got off their bikes and walked