A multi-million interchange development in Stockport is set to progress thanks to a major appointment.

Located alongside the A6 and Mersey Square, the key project will include a rooftop park along with cycle and footbridge linking the development with the town's famous railway station. It will have space for 20 bus stands, as well as a fully accessible, covered passenger concourse with seated waiting areas, real-time bus and train travel information screens, a Travelshop for tickets and travel advice, CCTV coverage, baby changing facilities and a 'Changing Places' toilet.

The transport hub will be connected to the A6 by a lift, which will also open out onto the new, two-acre public park on the roof of the interchange building, next to the residential block.

Willmott Dixon has been selected to develop first stage proposals for the interchange.

Anthony Dillon, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in the north, said: "We are proud to be appointed to this exciting project, one that will be a catalyst for the regeneration of the town centre and create a new gateway for the people of Stockport. It really is a dynamic design and it will create vibrant and innovative spaces for local people, while celebrating the town's rich history and unique character.

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"As a Greater Manchester based business, we are committed to supporting this economy by using local businesses whenever possible during the build programme. Our purpose beyond profit ethos means we're focused on leaving a lasting legacy of growth and prosperity that we can all be proud of."

A joint venture between Cityheart Limited and Rise Homes is the selected residential development partner for project. They will play a leading role alongside public sector partners in taking forward a residential building off Daw Bank with up to 200 apartments and associated car parking, offering further attractive high-quality living space in the town centre. This residential development is expected to open in 2024.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, commented: "Stockport already has some first-class transport connections and this development will bring together bus, rail and cycling and walking – and in the future Metrolink – to make the town centre a showcase for truly sustainable transport links.

“The interchange development is just part of wider plans to revitalise Stockport and will act as a blueprint for further town centre regenerations across Greater Manchester.

"Developments like Stockport Exchange and Redrock have already put the town on the map as a great place to live, work in and visit, and the pioneering Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation – the first in the country focused on a town centre – will continue to blaze the trail for low-carbon living and sustainability."

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Head of Operations, Alex Cropper, added: "We've delivered an impressive array of modern interchanges over the last decade, but this is one of the most striking transport projects we've taken forward in a local town centre. I'm delighted to have Willmott Dixon on board for this ground-breaking transformation of Stockport's bus station, right next door to new opportunities for town centre living being taken forward by Cityheart/Rise Homes.

"Willmott Dixon has a strong track record of delivering large projects like this, including the landmark Rochdale Riverside regeneration scheme – which also links to one of our interchanges. I look forward to working with them to transform the gateway to Stockport town centre."

Construction work will begin on the interchange in early 2021, with completion estimated for 2023.

(CM/MH)