GMCA chief to fill Stockport development corporation chair role

Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s chief executive Eamonn Boylan is taking up the role of interim chair of Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation, following the passing of Lord Kerslake earlier this month. Boylan will continue in the role until a permanent replacement is found and will have responsibility for overseeing delivery of the 130-acre Town Centre West masterplan in Stockport. The project will create 4,000 homes, a new transport hub and business district, new public realm and green spaces, and local amenities. Boylan said: “While it is under incredibly sad circumstances that I take up this role, I am honoured to advocate for the MDC and bring my experience to this role to ensure we continue to build on the fantastic foundation Lord Kerslake created for Stockport. “I look forward to working with our public and private sector partners to make Stockport one of the most sustainable, liveable and well-connected town centres in the country.” Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said: “Eamonn Boylan will act as a strong ambassador for Stockport MDC, bringing invaluable knowledge and a deep understanding of the town and its community from his previous experience in Stockport. “In this role Eamonn will ensure the £500m masterplan for Town Centre West will continue to move forwards. He will serve as a vital bridge between Stockport MDC and the GMCA, enhancing collaboration between the two organisations and I am confident that Eamonn will ensure he and the MDC build on the legacy of the late, great Lord Kerslake.” Stockport MDC was set up by Burnham to drive regeneration in the metropolitan borough. Under the leadership of Lord Kerslake it garnered strong momentum for its 15-year masterplan, completing on two initial phases including Stockport Exchange, a grade-A office scheme and public realm enhancements in partnership with Muse Developments, and the Mailbox, which saw the conversion of the former Royal Mail sorting office into 117 new homes and workspace. Construction for two other cornerstone projects within Town Centre West, include Stockport Interchange – a multi-million-pound new transport interchange – and Weir Mill – a £60m redevelopment of the town’s industrial mill into a new neighbourhood. Earlier this year the English Cities Fund was chosen as the MDC’s preferred joint venture partner to bring forward Stockport 8, one of the largest development sites within the 130-acre Town Centre West masterplan. The £250m scheme will transform the eight-acre site into a digitally enabled, green and fully-walkable neighbourhood, and deliver over 1,200 new homes, alongside retail, leisure, and office space. See property and land ownership information for Stockport>> To send feedback, e-mail samantha.mcclary@eg.co.uk or tweet @samanthamcclary or @EGPropertyNews