The ground floor food hall will be reworked with a new food concept and dedicated grassroots gig space...
New Century is set to open a new 450-capacity live music and events venue this autumn, as part of a major reconfiguration of the building’s ground floor.
The new space, called Locker, will sit beyond the existing bar on the other side of a newly installed sound-proofed partition, creating a separate venue within the iconic mid-century building.
New Century Kitchen will remain open in its current layout over the summer, with its food traders continuing to operate while a programme of activity takes place, including World Cup screenings.
When Locker opens, the ground floor will keep New Century’s big central bar, alongside a new food concept which will operate through the day and into the evening. The current food traders will depart on a staggered basis over the summer.
The new venue will focus on grassroots live music, with a programme spanning Manchester-based artists and touring talent across rock, jazz, hip-hop, electronic music and more.
Stylistically, the space will remain in keeping with New Century’s mid-century look, while adding a high-spec live setup intended to support artists, promoters and audiences in a more intimate setting.
“Locker aims to reimagine our ground floor in a way that enables us to support grassroots talent further, as well as providing independent hospitality for which New Century is known and loved,” said Abby Mudge, MD of New Century.
“Our loyal guests will still be able to enjoy the same look and feel, the same great team, our beautiful bar and an exciting new food concept throughout the day and into the evening.
“We’re proud to be creating more space in the city for emerging artists and promoters in a building that lives and breathes music. Locker will also provide even more experience and opportunities for the students who call our building home at dBs Institute, supporting New Century’s musical ecosystem. We can’t wait to welcome Manchester to Locker in the Autumn!”
The new opening has also been welcomed by the Music Venue Trust.
Jay Taylor, the organisation’s Regional Venues Alliance Coordinator, said: “New Century expanding to incorporate a second 450-capacity grassroots space is a huge step forward which will create significant opportunities for artists, promoters and audiences.
“This is a really encouraging addition to Manchester’s live music ecosystem, strengthening our vital infrastructure and grassroots scene.”
Locker is due to open at New Century this autumn.
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