Work has started on the second phase of Stockport town centre’s new gateway development. Eric Wright Construction is delivering Stockport Exchange, the latest part of the joint venture scheme between Muse and Stockport Council.
A computer generated image of Stockport Exchange, looking from Stockport railway station.
The first phase of the scheme — a 1,000 space multi-storey car park operated by NCP — was finished last year and is now open. Completion of the office and hotel is expected in the final quarter of 2016, ultimately delivering up to 375,000 sq ft of Grade A office space and 28,000 sq ft of commercial and retail space.
As a flagship development, Stockport Exchange will be at the heart of the town’s new commercial district and commuter hub. “Appointing a contractor and starting on site for the second phase of Stockport Exchange means we’re one step closer to realising this major new mixed-use development for Stockport,” explained Wes Erlam, development director at Muse.
“It will build on the success of the first phase and deliver a brand new hotel and much-needed, Grade A office accommodation at an excellent location in the town centre. We’re looking forward to working closely with our partners to transform this area into a welcoming and thriving new commercial district.”
Patrick McAuley, an executive member of Stockport Council, said he was delighted the second stage was now underway. “This and the appointment of Eric Wright Construction as the contractor for this phase are a huge step forward in realising our vision for the town centre,” added the councillor.
“The development of Stockport Exchange will bring with it new jobs and opportunities for local residents and businesses which is why it plays such an important part in our Investing in Stockport programme.
“This announcement comes at the same time as we are moving forward on some of our other Investing in Growth projects such as Redrock Stockport and the Town Centre Access Plan, showing the council’s commitment to making Stockport an even better place to live, work and visit,” added McAuley.
The authority’s multi-million pound Investing in Growth initiative will see a range of ambitious projects launched across Stockport with investment from both the council and its partners. Estimates predict the generation of at least 5,000 new jobs and the construction of 1,100 new homes.
On behalf of Eric Wright Construction, managing director John Wilson said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to this project and to be working with Muse Developments again, a company which we have worked with previously to deliver award-winning schemes.
“As a Considerate Constructor with Gold IIP status, we take pride in delivering quality buildings and are pleased to have started on this 16-month project.”
DTZ and CBRE are acting as joint agents for the Stockport Exchange scheme.
