A ‘world-famous’ comedy club in the Manchester district of Harpurhey is set to be demolished and transformed into a health centre. The Embassy Club on Rochdale Road was first opened in 1959 by controversial comic Bernard Manning, best known for his appearances on Granada TV’s The Comedians in the 1970s.
Manning bought the old temperance billiard hall and transformed it into a comedy and social club, which his son Bernard Manning Jr later took over after his passing in 2007. The venue played host to many comics in the Northern comedy circuit over the years including Les Dawson, Ken Dodd and Peter Kay, and was where John Cooper Clarke performed his first gig.
The future of the Embassy Club in Harpurhey, Manchester
However, Manchester City Council has announced that plans are now underway to continue the revitalisation of Harpurhey district centre, which will include the creation of a state-of-the-art health centre. Discussions are entering their final stage for Manchester City Council to purchase the Embassy Comedy Club after the Council was approached by the current owner about their intention to sell.
The current owners of this historic venue have made the decision to move on, presenting an opportunity for the land to be purchased. Once finalised, the Council aims to develop a brand new health centre and hub for the residents of Harpurhey. The project will tie into the already announced regeneration framework for the area that aims to develop more than 300 new homes for local people, as well as improve local and community amenities. Harpurhey is also set to benefit from a £20m Pride in Place fund over the course of the next 10 years.
New health centre and festival aims to improve the health and wellbeing of Harpurhey
Manchester City Council has said improving the health and wellbeing of Harpurhey is a key priority. A new health centre is part of the council’s drive to support local people and ensure that they can live happier and healthier lives, since this region of the city has lower-than-average health outcomes.
In aid of this, on March 22, the Healthy Happy Harpurhey festival is taking place, a celebration of harmony and wellbeing in the community happening across a host of venues across the neighbourhood. From community walks, to fitness and dance workshops, to health checks and intros to sports, there will be something for everyone to enjoy, to get your blood pumping, and to support everyone who wants to get a bit healthier, and have fun doing it.
“Providing high quality and accessible healthcare is vital.”
Councillor Gavin White, Executive Member for Housing and Development, said: “Whilst we are still finalising the plans for the final purchase of this site, it sends out a message that we as a Council are committed to investing in our communities and improving health across the city.
“Providing high quality and accessible healthcare is vital. By centring them in the heart of our communities we are making it easier for people to see their GP, a practice nurse or to access a range of services that will improve their lives in the long run. We are excited to be able to bring forward this development, and to keep our residents in Harpurhey