Bid to speed up regeneration plan

STOCKPORT council may soon have more power to help speed up its multi-million pound town centre regeneration scheme, if plans to establish Greater Manchester’s first Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) are agreed.

The council has been planning to transform 130 acres of brownfield land in the west of the town centre by creating a new ‘urban village’ of up to 3,000 homes.

A decision on whether to form a MDC board, which will consist of executives from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), Northern Rail, TfGM, Homes England and Stockport council, is expected in the coming weeks.

If approved its members will be charged with using their powers to accelerate the numerous town centre developments.

Council bosses say the proposed MDC will also help to resolve potential barriers to site development, unlock finances – and provide a sustainable framework so redevelopment can progress.

Coun Kate Butler, portfolio holder for economy and regeneration, said: “We have made a firm commitment to the people of Stockport that we will – as far as possible – build the homes we need on previously developed land.

“This brownfield first approach is central to our town centre ambitions and the proposed MDC.

“The council will be talking with residents and businesses as the proposals develop as it’s vital we listen to their views on how we can improve the environment and provide new opportunities.”

She continued: “We look forward to working with the Mayor Andy Burnham and the GMCA as we further investigate the option of establishing an MDC.”

The proposal is to be discussed during September’s planned GMCA meeting before a final decision is made in December.