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Stockport Council has launched a consultation on a new Design Guide to inform the development of new homes in the area.
The Stockport Town Centre Residential Design Guide will run until Wednesday 3rd July, and once adopted will be used by developers, designers and planning officers to help guide residential developments in the town centre.
Stockport Town Centre continues to go through a period of change and growth. At the heart of this transformation are ambitious plans to increase and enhance the town centre residential offer.
To make sure high-quality and sustainable residential growth takes place, the Stockport Town Centre Residential Design Guide outlines the council’s design expectations for this area of the borough.
Cllr Mark Hunter, leader of Stockport Council, said:
“The council has set out a radical new approach to tackling future housing needs and the changing roles of town centres.
“We are committed to making sure that new housing developments are of a quality and character to create sustainable and liveable places.
“The Town Centre Residential Design Guide will ensure that this commitment is delivered through the development management process.”
The proposed design guide has been prepared to align with Stockport Council’s ambitions for the town centre and has worked with industry professionals, including Planit and 5Plus Architects, to ensure its recommendations are achievable. The guide will apply to new homes planned for an area bounded by the M60 and Hempshaw Lane in the North and South, and by Hollywood Park and the River Goyt in the East and West, encompassing the Town Centre West regeneration area as well as areas to the East of the A6.
Guidance sets out key points for new homes in the town centre to consider, including how developments protect and enhance Stockport’s existing landmarks and unique character, and how new schemes ensure they are compatible with higher-density town centre living, such as through prioritising walking and cycling provision and outdoor spaces for apartment-dwellers. Tier 2 guidance will also cover specific localities within the town centre where differing designs may be preferred.
The proposed design guide and supporting documents are available for inspection on the council’s consultation website, as well as in person during staffed hours at Central Library and Stockport Council’s Stopford House Reception.
Responses to the consultation can be made online, by emailing the council’s Planning Policy team, or by writing to Stockport Council, Planning Policy, Stopford House, Piccadilly, Stockport, SK1 3XE.