Residents of Greater Manchester have expressed sadness and disappointment after the owner of Ark Manchester confirmed the nightclub will close its doors for good, citing that the business is 'no longer commercially viable'. The venue, located on Deansgate Locks, has been a fixture of the city's nightlife for approximately 12 years, occupying the former Missoula site.
Only One Nightclub Remains
Ark Manchester's closure will leave bar and club Popworld as the sole remaining nightlife venue on the Deansgate Locks development. The strip once boasted a vibrant lineup including The Comedy Store, Revolution, and Lola Lo, but has seen a steady decline in recent years. A specific closure date has not yet been announced, but it is understood to happen within weeks.
Stonegate Group, the owner of Ark Manchester, confirmed the decision in a statement to the Manchester Evening News: 'The hospitality sector continues to face significant challenges. After careful consideration, and despite our best efforts, Ark Manchester is no longer commercially viable and we have taken the difficult decision to close the venue. Our priority is to support our hard‑working team during this time, and we would like to thank them for their commitment and dedication. We would also like to thank our guests and the local community for their support over the years.'
Social Media Reaction
Greater Manchester residents have taken to social media to share their views. Alan Fletcher wrote on Facebook: 'Deansgate locks need redeveloping, it's sad as it was a thriving nightlife area in the 90s & 00s but consumer habits have changed.' John Postlethwaite added: 'The demise of Deansgate Locks. Used to be a good night out there.' Another person commented: 'Locks was once the place to go now nothing left probably turn into shops or offices sad really many great night down there.' Alexis Anderson-Jones noted: 'There’s nothing there anymore. It used to be thriving that end of town,' while another said: 'It’s such a shame younger people are missing out on social night outs.'
Reasons for Decline
Last year, the Manchester Evening News explored the decline of Deansgate Locks, which was transformed into a nightlife destination in 2000. Several factors were cited, including a shift in nightlife habits, the cost of living crisis, and issues with damp in the Grade II-listed structure. These challenges have contributed to the strip's struggles over the last few years, culminating in the closure of Ark Manchester.
