The Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) has announced that Eamonn Boylan will take up the role of interim Chair at the organisation, following the passing of Lord Kerslake earlier this month.

In this interim role, Mr Boylan will oversee delivery of the 130-acre Town Centre West masterplan in Stockport, comprising 4,000 new homes, a new transport hub, a business district, green spaces, and other local amenities. He will continue in the role until a replacement is found.

Stockport MDC brings together devolved powers and local council leadership to help realise this programme of regeneration. Iconic projects such as Stockport Exchange, Weir Mill, and Stockport 8 are part of this masterplan. 

Mr Boylan's current role is as chief executive of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority - prior to this, he also served as chief executive of Stockport Council, and helped initiate Stockport's regeneration programme. 

He has also worked as deputy chief executive of the Homes and Communities Agency, where he was responsible for all national regeneration programmes.

Mr Boylan will continue the legacy of Lord Kerslake, who held the post since 2020. 

As Stockport MDC chair, Mr Boylan will oversee development projects such as Weir Mill, pictured here (Image - Stockport Council)

On the subject of assuming the role, the new interim Chair said: "While it is under incredibly sad circumstances that I take up this role, I am honoured to advocate for the MDC and bring my experience to this role to ensure we continue to build on the fantastic foundation Lord Kerslake created for Stockport. 

"I look forward to working with our public and private sector partners to make Stockport one of the most sustainable, liveable and well-connected town centres in the country."

Mark Hunter, leader of Stockport Council, said he was 'extremely grateful' that Mr Boylan had agreed to step in. 

The council leader added: "His wide-ranging experience and track record in bringing forward major regeneration projects will ensure the realisation of the Town Centre West masterplan, and its transformative impact on Stockport.

"Under Eamonn, the MDC will honour the legacy of Lord Kerslake and continue to deliver against the ambitious vision to create a thriving Stockport [...]"

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: "Eamonn Boylan will act as a strong ambassador for Stockport MDC, bringing invaluable knowledge and a deep understanding of the town and its community from his previous experience in Stockport. In this role Eamonn will ensure the £500m masterplan for Town Centre West will continue to move forwards.

"Eamonn will serve as a vital bridge between Stockport MDC and the GMCA, enhancing collaboration between the two organisations. I am confident that Eamonn will ensure he and the MDC build on the legacy of the late, great Lord Kerslake."

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