Stockport unveils £2.8m investment plan at Grand Central

Stockport Council are set to embark on a £2.8M investment plan at Grand Central in the town centre.

Stockport is already undergoing an extensive development programme at Stockport Exchange and Redrock, providing a new gateway to Stockport from the rail station, restaurants and a new cinema.

Built in 1991, Grand Central has an Olympic size swimming pool and comprehensive fitness facilities. It is Stockport’s most well-used leisure facility and is managed by Life Leisure.

The proposed investment will see the health suite and pool flumes being brought back into use later in 2017 and other elements, such as the changing rooms and pool features, will be upgraded.

Key aspects of building plant will also be renewed at the same time, with works being scheduled to minimise disruption to residents.

Councillor Sheila Bailey, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Communities and Housing, said: “For some time the condition of Grand Central has not been of the quality that local residents should be able to expect and it is quite right that the Council’s Executive has very quickly made this investment a priority.  The upgrade will complement the Council’s investment with partners to regenerate Stockport Exchange and the town centre.”

The investment at Grand Central will complement the £145m development of Stockport Exchange of which it forms an integral part. Stockport Exchange combines high quality offices, a new hotel and retail offer, all set around brand new public realm.

Malcolm McPhail, CEO of Life Leisure, said: “We have been working with the Council to secure funding for the development at Life Leisure at Grand Central and we are delighted that the centre will undergo these essential works over the coming months. The centre is a flagship facility in the town and it is important that we continue to provide the best leisure facilities and opportunities for our communities.”