Here are the biggest stories affecting the local area this year, and what issues you might want to keep an eye on in 2026.

Green belt land developments

300 residents in Hazel Grove were among those opposing development on the Green Belt (Image - HCommunications)

A draft local plan was released earlier this year, outlining areas where up to 25,000 houses could be built. Some of the homes are planned to be built on green belt land.

This has led to much criticism from groups like The Save Bosden Farm and Offerton's Greenbelt group, who held a demonstration in opposition. They believe the plan is not thought out well enough, with the scale of development disproportionate to their areas.

Over November and December, the council has been holding a draft housing plan consultation, in order to hear what local residents think of the plan.

Council leader Mark Roberts opposed this development plan, but is bound to deliver it by Labour housing targets. He said that the consultation is a chance for the public to voice their concerns over certain aspects of the plan.

Stockport's Labour party released a statement that this plan will 'shape the future of our borough' and balance protecting the environment and building homes. They say this is desperately needed, as 8,000 households in Stockport are on the social housing waiting list.

The consultation is ending on the 21st of December, so in the new year expect to see the results of the public's feedback. It is unclear how much the council will be able to do to incorporate this feedback. However, this is a controversial issue, divided across political parties, that will continue to affect Stockport next year.

Town centre regeneration

Development is planned across Stockport town centre in the near future (Image - Nub News)

In November it was revealed that Stockport is set to receive £56 million to regenerate its town center.

£41.3 million will go towards Stockport 8, the new neighbourhood that will provide 1300 energy-efficient homes.

The aim is to provide a walkable living space, as well as retail and office space.

The council will also be aiming to expand walking and cycling paths in the town center.

Council leader, Mark Roberts, said that the aim is to enhance the good qualities the town center already has and invest in infrastructure.

This plan is incredibly large scale, and so further developments could happen in 2026.

Closures and transport

A number of train lines across Greater Manchester are planned to be brought into the Bee Network by 2026 (Image - Stockport Council)

Greek street should be open once again to motorists in Spring 2026, so keep an eye on that.

Greek street was closed because of the bridge needing to be replaced, causing diversions and disruptions to public transport for many.

It has been a big year for public transport in Greater Manchester and Stockport, with much discussion about a potential tram-train line running through Stockport. This would link Stockport with the tram network via Ashton.

Expect train fares to change as well, as Andy Burnham aims to bring trains into the Bee network from 2026. The idea is that there will be less confusion over needing different tickets for different rail providers, instead all tickets will be valid for Bee network trains. There are also plans to introduce a 'tap and go' system to trains in Greater Manchester.

In 2026, expect to see further developments on this topic, as Andy Burnham has made it a key focus for Greater Manchester.