Stockport Council has revealed plans for a complete transformation of Mersey Square.

Under the 'major' new proposals, the square and its famous bear pit would be turned into a 'vibrant' public space, replete with a play area, new greenery, cycle paths, walkways, and more.

The aim is to make Mersey Square greener and more welcoming, both during the day and night.

It's also proposed that the redesigned square could host outdoor performances and community events.

The Bear Pit - a familiar sight to all Stopfordians - would be 'sensitively' repurposed into a play area, while the rest of the square would be redesigned with improved walking and cycling routes, connecting to the Interchange and the wider town centre.

There would also be seating, trees, and greenery spread throughout the new square.

The project is being funded with ringfenced money from Transport for Greater Manchester and United Utilities.

Micheala Meikle, Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration and Housing, said: "This is an incredibly exciting moment for Stockport.

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"Mersey Square sits at the heart of our town centre and acts as the gateway for so many people arriving from our award-winning interchange and these plans will turn it into a space that truly reflects the pride, ambition and creativity of our borough.

"The Bear Pit is a landmark that means so much to our community, and this transformation will honour that heritage while creating a vibrant, modern space where people want to spend time. This is Stockport continuing to move boldly forward."

Cllr Grace Baynham, Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services, also said: "These proposals show just how ambitious we are for our town. Mersey Square will become greener, safer and far more enjoyable for everyone - families, businesses, visitors and residents alike.

"The improvements to walking and cycling routes will make moving through the town centre easier than ever.

"The work will complement our award-winning spiral ramp that links the town centre to the train station while it will create a further access point for the Trans Pennine Trail and the recently announced Mersey Valley Way."

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