WORK STARTS ON CAR PARK AS PART OF GRAND OFFICE PLAN

A ground breaking ceremony has taken place to mark the official start on site for a new 1,000 space multi-storey car park next to Stockport Train Station.

The new car park is part of a multi-million pound transformation of the Grand Central leisure complex into a high specification office quarter.

Representatives from Stockport Council, developer Muse Developments, Network Rail and contractor Morgan Sindall gathered on site to celebrate the occasion.

As well as improved car parking, the new office-led development will include a hotel, retail and public space, creating an attractive new gateway to the town.

Councillor Iain Roberts, executive member for economic development and regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “With construction for the multi-storey car park now on site, we’re one step closer to delivering a welcoming commercial and commuter hub right next to the train station. Once completed, it will provide much needed additional car parking for rail users and visitors, as well as paving the way for the next phase of development.

“We are doing everything we can to minimise disruption for businesses, commuters and visitors during construction and we appreciate their support during this time.”

Mike Payton, Director of Project Management at Muse Developments, added: “The commencement of the new multi-storey car park represents a significant milestone towards the realisation of the transformation and regeneration of this important gateway development. Completion of this new facility will allow the adjoining surface car parks to be re-developed with a vision to create a sustainable and attractive commercial hub.

“Muse is delighted to be working as Stockport Council’s development partner for the scheme and will continue to work with local businesses, users of the existing facilities and rail commuters to ensure that the works undertaken cause as little disruption as possible.“

The multi-storey car park is part of the first phase of development, along with highway improvements, which will be competed in spring 2014. Phase Two has been masterplanned for the first commercial office building, new public space, a hotel and highway improvements by 2015. Phase Three will include further office buildings, extension of the open space and further improved accessibility for pedestrians on a phased basis up to 2020.

Temporary car parking is being provided for rail users and other visitors during the works.

For more information visitwww.stockport.gov.uk/grandcentral