While this has been most visible in the past decade, the journey to get to where we are now dates back 20 years, when the council made bold decisions to pave the way for cranes to come in and for construction work to commence.
Like most towns across the country, Stockport had been struggling. Shops were closing, streets were quiet, and the town centre felt disconnected. But instead of accepting decline, Stockport chose to take control and invest in our future, leading to its huge revival.
Back in early 2016, a short video documented the first stirrings of Stockport’s regeneration - the first walls rising and the buzz of a town preparing for change. It was a moment full of promise and now the scale of transformation across the town centre is unmissable.
There are new homes, green spaces, places to eat and relax, and a growing number of independent shops and businesses. The new transport interchange makes getting around easier, and the rooftop park adds more greenery to the heart of our town.
Cllr Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, said: “While so much of what people can see today has taken shape over the past decade, the truth is Stockport’s regeneration story began much earlier. Nearly 20 years ago, the council and our partners made bold decisions to invest in our town centre, take control of keys sites, and set a long-term vision for transformation.
“Back then, the choice was simple – accept decline or be ambitious for something better. We chose ambition – and we’ve stuck to it through successive administrations and changing economic conditions. That consistency of purpose is why we’re now seeing such visible results.
“We’ve transformed tired and underused spaces into vibrant destinations. We’ve restored pride in our historic areas, brought new homes and jobs into the heart of the town, and created the kind of place where people want to spend time.
“Everything we’re doing – whether it’s repurposing spaces, supporting high streets, or attracting investment – is about creating a Stockport that works for everyone. While the transformation is focused on the town centre in delivering the most sustainable development, this work is important to the whole borough in building a strong sense of place and pride. There’s still work to do, but we’ve shown what’s possible when local leadership stays ambitious, determined, and focused on the long term.”
Here, we look back at the significant developments that make our town centre a brighter place for all our borough’s residents...
A town centre full of life
One of the first big changes came with Redrock, a leisure hub with a cinema, restaurants and parking. It helped make the town centre a place people stay into the evening, supporting local jobs and businesses.
The Light Cinema has played a key role in this success. It offers everything from blockbusters to indie films and live events. In 2022, it expanded to include a bowling alley, cafe, bar and entertainment space.
Stockport remains the group’s best-performing cinema nationally, with growing footfall every year and a loyal customer base.
Nicola Wood, The Light Cinema Business Manager, said: “In the past 12 months we’ve seen a rapid increase in profitability of the business and The Light entertainment model is continuing to deliver exciting results. Cinema admissions for The Light Stockport are up 10% year-on-year.”
Nearby, Stockport Exchange has become a busy business district, in an ideal spot next to the train station. It’s home to major companies, a hotel, a new public square, and even a padel court.
Simon Brownbill, Partner at HURST, said: “The regeneration of Stockport town centre has been a game changer for us a a business. Being based at Stockport Exchange gives us a real edge – we're in a premium, modern location with excellent transport links, but without the costs and congestion of the city centre. It’s a strong differentiator when it comes to attracting both clients and talent. There’s a real sense of ambition and investment in the town now, and we’re proud to be part of that.”
Meanwhile the Merseyway shopping centre has welcomed modern workspaces with STOK and the Merseyway Innovation Centre, along with Stockroom – a new learning and culture venue.
Reviving historic spaces
The Underbanks, once quiet and run-down, is now full of energy. Thanks to a £7 million investment from the council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and strong partnerships with developers and local businesses, the area is now lined with independent bars, bakeries, vintage shops and creative spaces. Jon Dootson, owner of Alfredo’s and The White Lion, said: “Thanks to the success of my first two businesses in the Underbanks, I’m now opening a third. The area is thriving, with valuable support from the council and a growing network of passionate, independent business owners. There’s real energy in the area, and it’s only getting better.”
Stockport Market continues to be a much-loved part of the town, now attracting a new generation of visitors with its mix of traditional and artisan goods.
Culture, events and creativity
Events like Krazy Races, Foodie Friday, and the Day of Dance have drawn big crowds. Stockport’s street and historic buildings are now popular filming locations, earning the town the nickname “Hollywood of the North.” Street art and murals by world-famous artists add colour and character, making our town centre feel vibrant and unique.
A new neighbourhood and better connections
Stockport Interchange, which opened in 2024, replaced the old bus station with a modern hub that’s easier to use and better connected. On top of it sits a well-used, two-acre rooftop park – a green space right in the middle of town.
This development reconnected key parts of the town and helped unlock space for thousands of new homes, with more to come through the Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC). Since 2019, the MDC has been working with the council and partners to drive the transformation of brownfield land into vibrant new neighbourhoods. So far, over 1,200 new homes have been built, with another 1,500 in the pipeline. Alongside them are modern offices, walking and cycling routes, and new public spaces designed to bring people together.
One of the most exciting developments is Stockport 8 – a sustainable neighbourhood next to the viaduct and Interchange. It will bring around 1,300 new homes, including affordable options, homes to rent or buy, and accessible housing. There will be green spaces and public squares for people to relax, socialise and enjoy leisure activities.
The MDC now plans to double its ambition, aiming to deliver 8,000 homes over the next 15 years, along with a new secondary school and a health hub to support the growing town centre population.
Transport is improving too. In June the government and Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, confirmed support for Metrolink to Stockport, making it easier to travel and helping reduce car use.
Cllr Mark Roberts added: “We’ve always said’ Next Stop Stockport’ is more than a slogan – it's a statement of intent. Stockport’s story shows that towns can take charge of their future, and we can’t wait to see what the next ten years brings to our borough.”