Plans to 'radically transform' a busy area in Stockport town centre look set to get the go-ahead after being backed by a group of councillors.

Mersey Square, based between the A6 and Merseyway Shopping Centre, could be revamped with a blueprint for new plants, green areas, and space for performances and public events.

The square is used by hundreds of shoppers and commuters every day and is based just outside Stockport's transport interchange, but is currently known better as a gathering point for local pigeons than for people to enjoy, with little more than a few benches to use.

It is hoped the new plans will make Mersey Square a buzzing place to meet up or relax in the heart of the town centre.

Proposals include turning an open area known as the 'Bear Pit' – which was once used for bear fighting in the 19th century – into a new 'focal point' and play space for kids.

Stockport council lifted the lid on the plans in February along with concept drawing showing how the area could look in future.

Stockport central area committee on 12 March 2026 (Image - Declan Carey LDRS)

Christine Carrigan, a councillor in the Brinnington and Stockport central ward, welcomed the plans as they were announced, saying the area could become 'like the old Piccadilly Gardens' in Manchester.

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The plans for Mersey Square were supported by councillors in Stockport at a town-hall meeting on March 12.

They urged Stockport council's cabinet members for parks, highways and transport, Councillor Grace Baynham, to approve the scheme.

Councillor Matt Wynne said: "Excellent plans, this has been the missing piece of the jigsaw. Petersgate Square has been there over 15 years, it was about time Mersey Square got some love."

A council report set out the vision for the future of Mersey Square: 'The proposals mark the next milestone as part of the UK's largest town centre regeneration, building on the huge momentum already reshaping Stockport and reinforcing Mersey Square as a place where residents, visitors and families can meet, relax, walk, play, and enjoy events throughout the year.

'The plans will reimagine Mersey Square as a greener, safer and more people focused public space, with modern public realm, a play space in the Bear Pit, new planting, high-quality materials, and improved walking and cycling routes that connect the Interchange, Merseyway, the Underbanks, and the wider town centre.'

New transport changes are part of the proposals too, with a two-way cycle lane linking the transport interchange, Port Street and the A6.

The decision whether to approve the plans for Mersey Square will be made by Councillor Baynham.

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