New virtual reality attraction opens on Stockport town centre
A new virtual reality centre has signed up to take 2300 sq ft at Merseyway shopping centre in Stockport.
X-Gen VR, which is set to open on Deanery Way in the centre this June, will offer a range of state-of-the-art virtual reality games and experiences.
Created by Stockport entrepreneur Gareth Mee, X-Gen VR will feature a VR arcade including motorbikes, go-karts and Gatling Guns for up to ten players at a time, along with luxury private rooms offering an unrivalled 3m x 3m play space to maximise the enjoyment of the latest virtual reality experiences and games.
James Kington from CBRE, asset manager for Merseyway, which is owned by Stockport Council said: “Destination gaming is becoming hugely popular across the UK and internationally so we’re delighted to be bringing a dedicated VR experience to Merseyway.
“We’re confident X-Gen VR will prove a popular addition to the scheme and reinforce our strategy to evolve the centre by creating experiences for shoppers, bringing in new footfall and increasing dwell time.”
Gareth Mee, founder of X-Gen VR said: “I’m really happy to be opening my first VR Centre here in my home town of Stockport. I grew up here, love our town, and have always believed that with the size and position of Stockport our town centre has massive potential which has been proven by the success of the revamped market area and Redrock.
“Thanks to Stockport Council’s investment, frequent events and the hard work of local entrepreneurs these areas are now thriving and I’m very much looking forward to being part of a new wave of businesses and investment at Merseyway.”
Caroline Simpson, corporate director of place at Stockport Council, said: “The opening of X-Gen VR is exciting news for the town centre and offers visitors something a little bit different.
“It will also complement the recently opened Produce Hall and the ever popular Redrock, giving visitors even more reason to come to Stockport.
“It’s always great when new businesses open but the fact that Gareth has such passion for the area he grew up in and faith in our town centre makes it even more special, and I wish him well with his new venture.
“We have more good news in the pipeline for Merseyway – look out for our plans which will be announced shortly.”
X-Gen VR will be hosting a free pop-up demo at Merseyway on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 May where visitors can sample the latest VR headset and try out virtual reality experiences including scuba diving, walking the plank and archery.
The letting to X-Gen VR follows a 5,000 sq ft letting to fashion retailer Tessuti, which opened at the scheme in December, and lease renewals with retailers including Thorntons, EE, WH Smith and TUi.
