1. Development must have regard to the conservation and enhancement of the town centre’s historic environment and seek opportunities for heritage-led regeneration including the sustainable re-use for assets identified as being At Risk.
  2. increase growth in number and choice of jobs through commercial and other employment-generating uses;
  3. add to and complement the provision and attractiveness of the town centre office market and meet demand for flexible workspace;
  4. provide retail and leisure uses that support and enhance the vitality and viability of the centre;
  5. broaden and enhance neighbourhood, social, health and community infrastructure, including education, for local residents in recognition of the town centre's increased population and of its role as a local service centre for surrounding communities;
  6. provide new healthcare facilities;
  7. bring about an expanded range of activities including recreation, cultural, creative and tourism uses which complement existing assets on offer;
  8. support public and private investment to regenerate the town centre;
  9. create an attractive mix of daytime and evening uses to help increase the use of the town throughout the week; and
  10. accord with the town's pivotal role as the primary sustainable transport hub for South Manchester and improve linkages through the town centre and beyond from key places outside the borough, especially by walking, cycling, green and blue infrastructure and public transport.

Explanation

  1. The regeneration and evolution of Stockport Town Centre is a priority for the council and forms a key component of the vision set out in One Stockport: One Future where it is expected to lead the way nationally in redefining what town centres can be.
  2. For clarification, when references are made to ‘town centre’ in this chapter this relates to the ‘Stockport Town Centre’ boundary as shown on the Policies Map.
  3. The NPPF requires planning policies to support the role that town centres play at the heart of their communities by taking a positive approach to their growth, management and adaptation and recognises that residential development often

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