Permission granted for £350m Stockport 8 neighbourhood

Stockport Council has approved planning permission for Stockport 8, a major town centre regeneration project that will deliver approximately 1,300 new homes, public spaces, and infrastructure as part of the broader £1 billion Town Centre West programme.

The £350 million scheme is being delivered by Stockport 8 LLP, a joint venture between Stockport Council and the English Cities Fund (ECF), a partnership comprising Muse, Homes England and Legal & General. The project is a key part of the Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation's (MDC) strategy to transform underused land west of the town centre into a walkable, sustainable neighbourhood.

Located on land around King Street West, adjacent to Stockport’s historic viaduct and close to the Weir Mill development, the site is currently a mix of disused industrial and brownfield land. The plans were recommended for approval by the central area committee in July and received full planning committee sign-off on 14 August.

The first phase of development, expected to begin in 2026 and complete in 2028, includes:

* 435 energy-efficient homes designed to net zero standards, including 82 affordable units

* A range of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, including 59 accessible homes built to M4(2) standards

* A new public square and enhanced public realm adjacent to the viaduct

* Dedicated pedestrian and cycle routes, with new links along King Street West and Viaduct Street

* Ground-floor commercial and community spaces

* Green infrastructure including new trees, green roofs, and sustainable urban drainage

Further phases are expected to begin from 2029, contributing to the delivery of 1,300 homes across the 8-acre site.

Joe Stockton, Development Director at ECF, described the scheme as "one of the largest town centre regeneration projects in the UK," and noted the strong community pride that shaped the design. "This remains a place for everyone, with homes to suit all ages and circumstances, and a place that celebrates the area’s strong community spirit and rich heritage," he said.

Council Leader Cllr Mark Roberts said the project forms part of a "once-in-a-generation opportunity" to create a more connected and sustainable Stockport. "Our ambition is simple: growth that's fair, sustainable and lasting."

Stockport MDC Managing Director Catherine Chilvers highlighted the project's inclusive approach: "We are investing in high-quality and energy-efficient housing that offers so much more for people at all stages of life."

The scheme has drawn support from across the council, with praise for its accessibility features, environmental benefits, and use of brownfield land for community purposes.

The project team includes Muse, shedkm (architect), Planit (landscape), Vinci (contractor), Deloitte (planning), Walker Sime (project management), Tace (MEP), Renaissance (engineering), Arup (transport), and Font Comms (engagement).