A new care facility and 68 new homes are set to be built in Stockport town centre.

The new 'multi-generational residential community' will occupy the former St Thomas' Hospital site. Named St Thomas' Gardens, the development aims to be a 'trailblazer' for multi-generational living.

The homes will be a mixture of shared ownership and social rent, with Stockport Homes providing 'much-needed' affordable homes on the site.

The care facility will be 'central' to the development, a council spokesperson said. It will contain 82 beds, and will be called "the Academy of Living Well", emphasising sustainability.

It will provide support for people transitioning between hospital and home, and forms part of the council's plans to integrate health and social care.

Combined with the 68 new homes, the site "will bring together housing, health, and community services, creating a dynamic living space for all ages", Stockport Council said.

"The vision for St Thomas' Gardens is closely aligned with Stockport's broader ambition of creating the most liveable town centre in the UK", the spokesperson added.

"The inclusion of homes, healthcare, and community spaces is designed to bring generations together and reflects a forward-thinking approach to modern living."

The scheme also aims to breathe new life into some of the borough's most important Grade II listed heritage buildings.

Construction is expected to begin before the end of October 2024.

Rowlinson has been appointed as contractor for the project.

Cllr Colin Macalister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: "It's fantastic news that we can confirm Rowlinson as construction partner on this project so we can bring this historic site forward, so it can be preserved and reimagined for modern, town centre living for all ages.

"The new care facility will provide the right support for those transitioning between hospital and home and will be at the heart of this new community.

"Our ambitious plans are continuing at pace, which is evident across the town centre. The new transport interchange has made Stockport more accessible than ever, and with 1,600 new homes already delivered to date and another 1,400 due to start on site by 2026 – including affordable options – we're delivering much needed homes that future generations can call home."

David Chilton, managing director, Rowlison said, "We're proud to be constructing this pioneering development that will revolutionise the care model in Stockport by offering support when it's needed most. It will breathe new life into the former St Thomas' hospital site."

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