Manchester's Gay Village has finally launched a trial of outdoor seating on parts of Bloom Street and Richmond Street, a move that bar owners describe as a "game-changer" after years of campaigning. The trial began on Friday, July 10, and will run throughout the summer, allowing venues such as Iconic, The Goose, The Molly House, New York New York, and The Eagle to offer pavement seating.
Pandemic-era success sparks long campaign
During the COVID-19 pandemic, European café-style outdoor seating was introduced as a lifeline for businesses. Terry Gold, owner of Iconic on Richmond Street, told the Manchester Evening News: "When we were all granted outdoor space during the pandemic, it worked so well for us. Not only did it increase footfall and income at a very difficult time, it allowed us to employ extra staff and also had a great vibe." He added that there were no incidents during the 18 months of outdoor seating.
However, when pandemic restrictions were lifted, most outdoor spaces in the Village were restricted to Canal Street only. Businesses on the back streets have since campaigned for a return of the café-style approach.
Trial details and impact
Manchester City Council announced the trial last month, working with operators to introduce barriers designed to fit the area. David Thornhill, co-owner of The Goose on Bloom Street with Paul Senior, said: "We've been working with the other operators and the council on how we could do this and we’re just so grateful that this scheme is now being implemented. After Covid, daytime trade in the Village has declined significantly for us. On sunny days, it’s become common for venues like ours to lose out to other parts of the city that can accommodate having outside seats."
Nick Curtis, co-owner of The Eagle, The Lodge, and the Cockatoo Club, said: "We’re absolutely over the moon about this. We know that these things take time, but it’s been a long while of us all asking for this - it’s phenomenal that it’s actually happened." During the pandemic, The Eagle introduced a food menu and hired more staff, but had to let them go when outdoor seating ended. Curtis is now working on a full food offering again and plans to buy a projector for outdoor screenings of shows like The Golden Girls.
Council and community support
The trial is similar to schemes on Thomas Street and Stevenson Square in the Northern Quarter. Councillor Mandie Shilton Godwin, executive member for clean air, environment and transport, said: "The Gay Village is one of our most precious communities. For decades the queer community has been able to call this neighbourhood its own, establishing a long and proud place in the history of the fight against bigotry and discrimination." She added that the council is "excited to be trialling additional outdoor seating for these streets" and urged people to take part in the consultation to shape the future of the Gay Village.
Terry Gold believes the trial will also improve the area's atmosphere. "I think it will have a big impact on the area. Not only will it give customers and visitors more options other than Canal Street, I think it will also mean that people appreciate and look after the Village more too."
