Green light expected for Trof venture
A FORMER Methodist Hall in Manchester, unused for 60 years, is to reopen as a bar and music venue.
Zecol, the firm behind the Trof chain, plans to use the Grade II-listed Albert Hall on Peter Street as a multi-purpose leisure venue for gigs, exhibitions, conferences and dining.
The plans are expected to be approved by Manchester City Council’s planning committee on Thursday, along with listed building consent.
The ground floor unit was home to Brannigan’s in recent years, but the rest of the building has been unused.
According to a document prepared for the planning meeting, the building can accommodate around 4,000 people.
The council states: “The proposal would restore and revitalise an unoccupied and important heritage asset part of which has been vacant for 60 years.
“The diverse mix of uses proposed including live and recorded music events along with the associated food and drink uses would contribute positively to Manchester’s music and entertainment offer and would attract more visitors to the city.”
Zecol, founded by Joel Wilkinson, already runs The Deaf Institute off Oxford Road and Trofs in the Northern Quarter and Fallowfield. It also runs Gorilla at the former Green Room on Whitworth Street West.
