Metro Mayor launches Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, Homes England and Stockport Council came together today (September 9) to launch the Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC).

Stockport MDC is the first of its kind nationally to focus on a town centre, in particular, the next stage of town centre regeneration, turning the ambitious new plans for Stockport’s Town Centre West into reality.

The MDC is a new approach to tackling the challenges that town centres face and will lead the creation of a new urban village with up to 3,500 new homes and 100,000m2 of employment floorspace, incorporating a mix of office, workshops, retail, leisure, health and education, which could accommodate 5,300 jobs.

In doing so, it will help provide much-needed housing for Stockport now and for the future, putting low-carbon living and sustainability at its heart.

It will create new jobs and make the most of Stockport’s exceptional transport links, providing new walking and cycling routes and green spaces to encourage healthier lifestyles.

At the launch event Mr Burnham outlined his vision for the long-term regeration of Stockport Town Centre West. He was joined by key representatives from Stockport Council, Homes England, strategic advisers from the private sector and dozens of regeneration professionals from across the region.

He said: “Since I launched my Town Centre Challenge I have been impressed by the vision and ambition in Stockport.

“Less than two years later I am delighted to use my powers to lead large-scale regeneration in Stockport and take this historic step.

“The Mayoral Development Corporation I’ve created, with the support of the council and Homes England, will help redefine Stockport and change the way we approach the long-term future of town centres and brownfield regeneration for years to come.”

Cllr Elise Wilson, leader of Stockport Council, said: “I’m really proud of the way we’re reshaping Stockport town centre; from Redrock, to the market, to the interchange, we’re backing Stockport and doing everything we can to make it the best place to live, work and enjoy life.

“The MDC is a unique example of how the council, Andy Burnham, and Homes England can come together with the private sector to deliver the type of sustainable, environmental-friendly communities we desire for Stockport.

“This is a really exciting time for Stockport and the council is absolutely committed to making sure the MDC is a massive success.”