Stockport Council, on behalf of the Cheadle Towns Fund Board, has today submitted a business case to government for three transformational projects in Cheadle, after extensive consultation with the public, businesses and industry partners.
The projects submitted are:
1. New railway station – will connect Cheadle into the regional public transport network, transforming accessibility to Stockport Town Centre and beyond. It will also improve connectivity along the Mid Cheshire Line. It will feature a single 100m-long platform with covered waiting facilities, live departure boards and ticket machines, as well as covered parking for cycles, electric vehicle charging points and provision for disabled users. The Board has worked closely with rail industry partners to bring this to fruition. A planning application is due to be submitted in the coming weeks.
2. Cycling and walking route - this strategic north-south route will promote sustainable travel and link Cheadle to its High Street and the new rail station. It will also connect to wider cycle routes on Manchester Road and in Abney Hall Park and complements other improvements to promote healthy and clean travel options.
3. Cheadle Eco Business Park - this scheme will provide around 110,000 sq ft of high-quality employment space that will act as an exemplar for low carbon technologies and clean energy production on an industrial park. The Eco Business Park will accelerate the green business sector, providing quality jobs for the future. It will generate economic growth and promote growth in key sectors of the local economy. Initial stakeholder engagement and market research has recognised strong demand for such employment space and a gap in current supply.
The projects will all help to unlock Cheadle’s economic potential, promoting clean growth and tackling challenges around connectivity and congestion in the area whilst supporting the council’s ambitious CAN (Climate Action Now) strategy.
Marge Falconer, Chair of the Cheadle Town Board said “The Board has worked tirelessly since early 2020 to bring these game changing projects forward for Cheadle. We have engaged closely with the local community and stakeholders to make sure they fully reflect local needs. Together they will unlock the Cheadle’s fantastic potential. We are all looking forward to their delivery over the coming years.”
Further public consultation was held in October 2021 to gain more feedback on the rail station and walking and cycling projects and feedback suggested there was overwhelming support for the designs presented.
Subject to Government approval it is hoped to start the cycling and walking project later this year, with works on the rail station and Eco Business Park to commence in 2024.
