A report went to the Economy, Regeneration & Climate Change Scrutiny Committee (ERCCSC) on Thursday (15 June), which sought revised planning permission for Stockport Exchange. 

If permission for phase five was secured, the report argues, Stockport would be in an excellent position to meet demand for office space, as there is no similar space being completed in Manchester in the next two years. 

It would also leave room for phases six, seven and eight, which would further develop the Exchange. 

As the report states, it looks to "secure detailed planning permission for Stockport Exchange phase five for a building of circa 65,000 sq. ft, together with outline planning permission for phases six, seven and eight Stockport Exchange by way of a hybrid planning application."

It adds: "The existing planning permission expired in September 2022 and therefore a new hybrid planning application represents an exciting opportunity to refresh the masterplan and get in a position to deliver the future phases at Stockport Exchange, building on the successes to date."

It is estimated that planning fees will come to £876,469. This will be shared 50/50 between the council and its development partner, Muse.

Preparation of the planning application is expected to begin around September of this year, with a view to submitting plans in March 2024.  

Approval of the planning application would take place around August/September 2024. 

The ERCCSC seemed supportive of the report. Cllr Mark Roberts described the Exchange as an 'incredibly successful scheme', and added that phase five plans were 'well-positioned to capture future demand'.  

Similarly, Cllr John Taylor said, "I'm on the committee to cheer on stuff like this".

The content of the report was noted by the committee, and the cabinet will be asked to approve proposals for plans. 

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