In a strategic move to bolster urban regeneration, Stockport Council is setting its sights on a pivotal land exchange in the heart of the town. The council’s objective is clear: to acquire a prime site off Travis Brow, a step that promises to be a linchpin in advancing a £250m urban rejuvenation initiative.

This isn’t just about land acquisition; it’s a testament to Stockport’s forward-thinking approach to urban development. The council’s regeneration committee is poised to endorse this land exchange, which is deemed “essential” for the broader vision. This swap will not only pave the way for 1,200 new homes under the Stockport 8 banner but will also facilitate the relocation of the town’s ambulance station and herald the inception of a state-of-the-art ZEBRA bus depot.

The council’s game plan involves taking over the existing Ambulance Service facility at Travis Brow, earmarking it for a cutting-edge depot to house its electric bus fleet. In a reciprocal move, the ambulance service will transition to a newly constructed facility on a previous Hazel Grove park and ride site, with the council committing funds for its development.

The overarching vision is clear: to replace the current bus depot, acquired in 2021, with residential units. With the backing of the English Cities Fund, a planning proposal for this ambitious £250m project is anticipated by summer 2024. This project envisions a sustainable, digital-friendly, and pedestrian-centric mixed-use community.

Cllr Colin MacAlister, a key figure in the council’s economy, regeneration, and housing division, encapsulated the sentiment, stating, “This initiative is a cornerstone of our joint vision with the Mayoral Development Corporation to usher in new housing and employment opportunities. Through collaborative efforts with public sector entities and ECF, we’re looking at a brighter future with enhanced ambulance services, a green bus depot, and 1,200 new homes.”

Stockport 8 is a chapter in the council’s broader narrative to rejuvenate the western precincts of the town centre, with plans spanning 15 years that include up to 4,000 homes, significant employment zones, transport upgrades, green spaces, and local amenities.

In light of the upcoming “Tomorrow’s Net Zero” conference, which promises to be a hub for investors, developers, and policy influencers, Stockport’s land swap initiative underscores the importance of strategic planning and collaboration in driving urban regeneration. The event, focusing on the challenges and solutions to achieving net zero, aligns seamlessly with Stockport’s vision, making it a must-attend for all stakeholders.