With a prominent need for accommodation in Stockport town centre, many people are pleased to know plans for 130 flats have been approved. The Crucible Snooker Club, which is located in Edward Street, is set to be demolished to make way for the three new blocks. The premises have been described as 100% affordable, and this is no doubt a key factor in the support issued by Stockport council.
There will be a mixture of one and two-bedroom properties available for shared ownership, which is deemed to be a positive element in helping people step on to the property ladder. However, while there is a significant need for property, there have been many council members voicing their displeasure about the development.
Coun Graham Greenhalgh said: “I agree there are lots of notable benefits, but it’s not child-friendly and we shouldn’t pretend it is. I’m hoping it won’t attract families, frankly, as it wouldn't be inappropriate for them.”
Children and families need space to play
There was also criticism regarding the lack of a play area in the plans from Coun Wendy Meikle. She spoke out about the developer being unwilling to pay towards these facilities, saying; “It was mentioned about the play areas that there was nowhere to put them. At the back, where the flats are, there’s loads of space, I’m really disappointed there’s not going to be some provision for a play area either amongst the flats or as near to the new development as possible.”
The development is set to feature 42 parking spaces and 138 cycle spaces. It is a positive aspect that so many cycling spaces are being provided, as this will hopefully encourage people to be more environmentally friendly. However, the plans have been criticised because there will only be 14 electric vehicle charging points in the development.
Is the new development green enough?
The underlying structure is in place to offer full provision of this service, but initially, it will not be utilised. Coun Philip Harding said; “We don’t have any standards for electric vehicle charging points and it’s high time we did - and not at the very low one we have here. What concerns me is, to go from 14 to 42, is there a huge increase in cost? Because the spaces are going to be there, is it that much more expensive to go to 100” for these developers, wherever they are developing?”
There has also been criticism over the limited parking space for vehicles; and it seems as though there is a lot of work to do in winning people over to the merits of this development.
As property market specialists in Stockport, we believe it is important that new developments are provided. There is a significant level of demand for property in Stockport and there is call for 130 flats in Stockport town centre.
With convenient transport links to the centre of Manchester, and significant developments taking place, Stockport is the ideal place to buy, live or invest. As Stockport property specialists, we want to ensure you stay in touch with the latest property news. If you are looking for assistance in this area, give Spencer Harvey a call on 0161 480 8888 or send us an email at info@spencerharvey.co.uk. For a free valuation please visit: https://www.spencerharvey.co.uk/valuation-enquiry.html