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Meanwhile Creative
Projects
- Bromley Yard – Manchester
- St Saviour’s Yard – Norwich
- Willway Yard – Bristol
- Pollard Yard, Manchester
- Meanwhile House Cardiff
- Cardiff Containers
- 36 King Street – Bristol
- The Coal Shed – Bristol
- Lincoln Street Warehouse – Bristol
- Past Project: Hill Street Studios
- Past Project: Deben House
- Past Project: Freestone Studios
- Past Project: Kingsland Studios
- Past Project: Pithay Studios
- Past Project: Bridewell Space
Pollard Yard
Launched: June 2019
Location: Pollard Street East, Manchester, M40 7QX
Just a stone’s throw from Ancoats and New Islington, Pollard Yard is our flagship container development in Manchester — and now one of the city’s biggest creative communities. What began as a pilot project of 30 containers has grown into a thriving network of over 90 studios, supporting a bold mix of freelancers, makers, musicians, and micro-businesses.
The Project
Pollard Yard was launched in phases, with each stage expanding the site’s potential and community reach:
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Phase 1 (2019): 30 pilot containers
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Phase 2 (late 2019): 67 more units added, plus shared facilities and a full-time site manager
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Phase 3 (2020): 42 additional containers with enhanced specs and layout options
Today, the site is home to a buzzing mix of creative talent and independent hustle — from tattooists and stylists to music producers, film editors, and clothing brands.
The Spec
Each container at Pollard Yard is self-contained with ground-floor access, natural light, and plenty of plug sockets. Studios feature OSB or ply-lined interiors, with upgraded units offering additional windows and ventilation. All spaces come with 24/7 access, flexible rolling contracts, and bills included (except internet). The site also offers onsite parking (first come, first served), a café, and a full-time site manager — with no VAT applicable.
Who’s Here?
Pollard Yard is home to a diverse mix of creatives and small businesses, including artists, illustrators, musicians, producers, tattooists, beauty professionals, clothing brands, stylists, web developers, content creators, photographers, prep kitchens, wellness brands, and filmmakers.
Transport Links
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By tram: Holt Town (2 min walk), New Islington (5 min walk)
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By bus: 216 or 231 from Piccadilly Gardens
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On foot: 25 min from Piccadilly Gardens, 20 min from Manchester Piccadilly
Join the Community
Pollard Yard isn’t just a place to work — it’s a creative container community built for the brave, the bold, and the self-starting. Whether you’re building something with your hands, your mind, or your music — this is your space to do it your way.
E: pollardyard@meanwhilecreative.co.uk
Enquiry Form Here
Follow us on Instagram for the latest studio openings, behind-the-scenes stories, and community updates.
Available spaces
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