Buses will start running from Stockport Interchange on Sunday 17 March, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has announced, as 'final touches' are put in place.

From that date, passengers will be able to access the interchange from entrances on Mersey Square, Swaine Street and Daw Bank.

As TfGM states: "After the last timetabled bus services on Saturday (16th), some existing nearby bus stops, including Heaton Lane bus station, will close and services will transfer to the new Interchange."

Further still, the rooftop park will open the following day on March 18, allowing access to the interchange via lifts and stairs. The park could also include an events space.

The new interchange will house 18 bus stands, with the capacity for 164 departures per hour. Find a full list of the services and the stands they will use HERE.

The building will be fully accessible, with ramps, toilets, walking / cycling pathways, a spacious passenger concourse, and more.

The rooftop park will open on March 18, one day after the interchange itself (Image - TfGM)

As for the rest of the interchange 'estate'; the spiral ramp connecting the new park with an area along the River Mersey / Trans Pennine Trail will open in April. The block of 196 apartments overlooking the interchange, meanwhile, will open in May.

Chris Barnes, Head of Projects Group at TfGM, said: "We're really looking forward to welcoming the first bus passengers to this modern, attractive and accessible new interchange.  

"It's a big moment for Stockport and Greater Manchester and we want everyone to make the most of the new facilities on offer right from the outset. 

 "New timetables and other important information are now available so people can make themselves familiar with the new arrangement ahead of Sunday – ensuring their first journey is a smooth and enjoyable one." 

Similarly, Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said last month: "The progress that has been made to date has been truly transformational for our town centre, which is all part of the exciting £1 billion investment that's underway to make Stockport an even better place to live, work, play and connect.

"The opening of the site is just the start of the amazing things we have planned for Stockport this year and will continue with our Town of Culture Weekend taking place on March 23 and 24."

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