Hello Huyton – we can’t wait to welcome you to Make Huyton
In April 2023 we’ll throw open the doors to Make Huyton, a 7,000 sq/ft unit on Derby Road in the heart of Huyton Village Centre.
The building is fondly remembered as the Mayfair Cinema, and more recently a Boots store, but will be reimagined as a collaborative work space for makers and learners.
We’ll be creating a space where artists and makers can rent flexible, accessible studios, host workshops and connect with other makers. It’s a real community atmosphere, and will also host an ‘innovation lab’ with digital fabrication tools – think 3D printers and laser cutters.
Just across the road, at 22 Derby Road, we’ll also be opening a second space that will host classes, exhibitions, and space for the community to get creative.
Our CEO, Liam Kelly, says: “We’re really excited to be opening the project right on the high street. The former Boots store offers the perfect location and size for the project and will really maximise the impact the project can have. Make Huyton Village will offer affordable workspace for people to set-up and grow their creative, digital and maker endeavours. People who join the Make community will be able to access support and advice via workshops and enterprise programmes. We’re excited to invite you all to join in!”
We’ve been working alongside Knowsley Council on the project. Cllr Tony Brennan, who’s the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, says: “We have really ambitious plans for Huyton Village Centre and want to create a diverse offer. Derby Road has already benefited from significant investment through the ‘Shop Front Improvement Scheme’, which has brought in an array of new food and drink outlets, and there is so much more to look forward to as part of the ten-year development plan. The plans for Huyton include the creation of a new commercial district, a village green, a station gateway and a distinctive streetscape scheme on Derby Road. The creation of a creative, digital and maker space will provide new opportunities, help showcase talent and enhance the offer in the village centre.”
We’re looking forward to opening our third makerspace across Liverpool City Region, and meeting a new community of creative people.
Make Huyton is due to open at the end of April 2023. If you’re interested in taking on a space, give us a shout at hello@makecic.org.
Read this article to find out more about the buildings history as a cinema in the 1930’s!
