Stockport town centre has seen huge changes in the last few years.

New homes and shops, a transport interchange, and revamped cultural spaces have turned into one of the trendiest corners of Greater Manchester.

The town is set to continue growing with 8,000 homes planned by 2040 and more people flocking to call it home, and a £1bn regeneration scheme well underway.

Last week, a glimpse into Stockport town centre's future was revealed as part of a 'landmark' blueprint for design.

The 160-page Town Centre Residential Design Guide has been created to give developers a steer about how Stockport should look and feel while regeneration work takes place.

It includes protecting 'the existing skyline image' with future building plans having to show how they fit around the town's landmark buildings such as the town hall and viaduct.

Stockport's assets map was published early in February (Image - SMBC)

The guide also places special importance on creating more parks and open spaces, streets which prioritise pedestrians and cyclists, as well as creating spacious homes with natural daylight.

Council bosses say the town's future should have developments with communal spaces and 'rich green infrastructure' alongside Stockport's existing character.

Clear guidelines for car parks have been shared in the design guide, calling for any surface level parking to be 'subtly integrated' into the town, fitting into future communal courtyards.

Street spaces will be mixed with furniture and public art to 'encourage a range of activities and functions' beyond getting from A to B.

(Image - Nub News)

The design guide for the future of the town was created with firms Planit and 5Plus Architects, and shaped by community feedback during a public consultation.

Cllr Mark Hunter, leader of Stockport Council, said: "This guide is a vital step in delivering our ambition to make Stockport the best place to live, work, and thrive.

"It ensures new developments are not only of the highest quality but also create sustainable, vibrant communities that reflect our bold vision for the future."

Caleb Jones, senior urban designer at Planit, added: "Increasing and enhancing the town centre's residential offer is key to meeting the growing demand for urban living; whilst also protecting the town's unique heritage assets and creating an attractive, green and clean place people want to work and live in."

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