Why town’s new bus station really will be park and ride
PLANS to create a new main bus station for Stockport with a park on the top moved a step closer to reality after funding was secured.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has agreed to stump up its share of money for Stockport Interchange at Daw Bank.
It is expected a planning application for the £77m project will be submitted in August and if permission is given a major revamp of the site, in the town centre, would be completed by 2022.
The scheme would also include a covered passenger concourse and waiting area, 20 bus stands, enhanced CCTV, car and cycle parks and 200 apartments.
Now public consultation events are underway for people to have their say on shaping the final details of the planning application ahead of its submission.
Alex Ganotis, leader of Stockport council, said: “I’m pleased that proposals for the transport interchange project have been given the go-ahead today.
“This is such an important project for Stockport.
“We believe that the creation of a new park, new homes for residents and modern public transport facilities will all be great additions to our town.
“I would urge everyone who lives or works in Stockport to the take the opportunity to give us your views on the proposals, as your feedback will help to shape our final plans.”
The development is a joint project between Stockport council, the GMCA and Transport for Greater Manchester.
New computer generated images of the transport interchange and the two-acre park on top of it have been released this week to coincide with the consultation, which lasts until July 29.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “Plans for a modern transport interchange, residential development and large public park demonstrate a clear ambition for Stockport to become a key urban centre.
“This new development will play an important role in making travel easier and supporting further regeneration.”
Other proposals for the new interchange include accessible toilets and baby change facilities, a lift to the A6 and the upgrading of the Trans Pennine Trail along the River Mersey.
Public events take place at Stockport bus station on July 5 and 17, Mersey Square on July 14 and Stockport train station on July 24. All are 10am to 2pm.
Views can also be given through an online questionnaire at www.tfgm. com/stockport-interchange.