The site of the recently closed Sainsbury’s store in the town centre has been acquired by developers who plan to deliver a scheme of over new 500 homes.
The supermarket closed to shoppers at the end of January 2021. The 3.28 acre site has now been sold to Hale-based build-to-rent specialists Amstone Ventures for an undisclosed sum. The developers are currently drawing up plans with architects Leach Rhodes Walker for the site.
Amstone Ventures are expected to submit their application for planning permission for the £100 million development later this year, with construction targeted to begin early 2022. Proposals are expected to comprise a development of around 550 homes on the former Sainsbury’s site, comprising a mix of build-to-rent apartments and townhouses, as well as large communal garden and outdoor spaces for residents.
The scheme will join a number of other large residential developments in the offing for Stockport town centre, including the regeneration of Weir Mill and redevelopment parts of Stockport College’s campus that are being facilitated by the town’s Mayoral Development Corporation; an 18-storey apartment building off Piccadilly was also recently given the green light from councillors. Expanding town centre living forms a key tenet of Stockport Council’s ambitions to revitalise the town centre, providing a local population to make the most of retail and leisure opportunities in the area.
Cllr David Meller, cabinet member for economy and regeneration at Stockport Council, commented on the plans; he said:
It is great to see the former Sainsbury’s site being brought back into use so quickly, which shows the confidence so many have in our town centre.
“Amstone joins the list of developers who are helping to deliver the regeneration of the town centre and this complements our ambitious plans for the town and our reputation as great place to live, work, enjoy and do business.”
Martin Halsey, operations director at Amstone Ventures, said:
Amstone has a range of build to rent developments across Greater Manchester. What these sites have in common is that they are in great locations with excellent transport links and incorporate high quality design offering city centre living to a wider demographic. Our developments cater for a range of occupiers, including families, couples, sharers and individuals.
“We can see that Stockport has untapped demand for quality homes within its town centre, offering a vibrant lifestyle and everything Stockport town centre has to offer, all on the doorstep.”