Stretford high street businesses are flourishing after the completion of the first phase of the town centre’s redevelopment.
The businesses on King Street have enjoyed a rise in visitors and leisure seekers as more retailers and independent businesses move in.
Trafford Council and Bruntwood, a building developer, had reopened King Street for the first time in August 2025 after 60 years.
Nigel Young, owner of Fountain Records, moved into his building in November 2025 and saw an increase in shoppers, including international music fans.
He said: “We’ve now turned the corner. We’ve been here for over 10 years now, and it’s only gotten better. The number of customers we see is improving over time.
“The nature of retail has changed, and Stretford had suffered since the opening of the Trafford Centre, with many businesses pulling out or not being able to survive.
“Once the cinema opens, people will start to see all of the opportunities with the new footfall, which will help businesses succeed.”
Trafford Council and Bruntwood received funding from the government’s £830m Future High Streets Fund to help rebuild high streets and town centres.
The first phase of the redevelopment included transforming the areas surrounding King Street, Pinnington Lane and Sir Tony Lloyd.
Stephen Graham, director of Clay Studio said: “We came to Stretford because of the changes, and I think it’s a good thing for the community. It was on its last legs.
“It’s been really nice having people come around and have a look at our studio. The locals are now interested in us being here, and before they were not.
“There has definitely been an increase in people.”
Sharmane, Customer Assistant of Ebony’s Hair & Beauty, moved into their new shop in early February and said they’re looking forward to the change.
“It has been a huge change and transformation, but I can see for myself working here the potential for Stretford to grow and develop.
“Since the development, I’m aware that there are changes, so it has been unsettling, especially transferring from one place to another, but I can see the difference now and how it can be.
“It’s still early days to tell how much footfall we will get, but Stretford Mall’s social media helped promote us on Instagram, and we’ve had people who have found us through that.”
The next phase of the redevelopment will be the demolition of Stretford Mall, which closed in late February, and new affordable housing will be built in its place.
Further developments will also be made to the surrounding areas, including Stretford Public Hall and the opening of the Northern Light Cinema in late March 2026.