The changing face of Whitworth St West

Whitworth Street West is a street that’s associated with the field of media, culture and nightlife.
 
It runs between two historic transport routes: the Rochdale Canal and the railway line from Oxford Rd Station.

It seems constantly to be in a state of change.

The Cornerhouse has gone, though the building remains. The facility has moved along Whitworth St West to HOME, part of a new leisure and arts complex that’s not yet complete.

Walking west from Oxford Rd we remember Cornerhouse Screen One, the Green Room Theatre, Counter Image Gorilla and the Hacienda.

The Ritz, the longest continuously used music venue in Manchester is going strong.

 
At the far end, Deansgate Locks transformed and reinvented the Rochdale Canal arches. The old buildings on the south side of the street remain to be brought back into use.

Looking east, the recently built Student Castle dominates the streetscape, and a new glass tower is set to appear next to Deansgate Locks.

Just south of the viaduct, HOME will soon be opening but what is going to happen to Oxford Road Corner and the station?

It’s difficult to keep track of all the changes.

 
Whatever happens, Whitworth Street West is likely to remain a place that’s synonymous with innovation, creativity and nightlife, fully in the spirit of the music industry maverick who lived close by and is commemorated in the name “Tony Wilson Place”.