Arts and Culture

Retro Bar: Iconic independent music venue to be demolished

Independent music venue Retro is being demolished in August 2025 to make way for a major £1.7 billion project called the ‘Sister Masterplan’.

Retro, formerly known as the Swinging Sporran, has stood for over 60 years on Sackville Street.

The grassroots venue has been hosting music gigs and live events since opening its doors some 35 years ago. 

Retro’s forced demolition is another blow to Manchester’s independent music scene.

Manchester prides itself and profits off its musical exports of the past, but for how long can this continue if the musicians and music venues of today are not supported?

All media by Freya Thomson.

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