Stockport Exchange development enters phase two

Construction work on the second stage of Stockport Exchange, the town’s new gateway development, has begun.

Muse Developments, the company behind the project, has chosen Preston-headquartered Eric Wright Construction to deliver the next phase, which is being carried out in partnership with Stockport Council.

The work includes a 115-bed hotel and an office building comprising five levels and 50,000 sq ft of space, along with a ground-floor retail unit and a new public area near Stockport railway station.

Muse’s development director, Wes Erlam, said: “Appointing a contractor and starting on site for the second phase of Stockport Exchange means we’re one step closer to realising this major new mixed-use development for Stockport.

“It will build on the success of the first phase and deliver a brand new hotel and much-needed, Grade A office accommodation at an excellent location in the town centre.”

He added: “We’re looking forward to working closely with our partners to transform this area into a welcoming and thriving new commercial district.”

Stockport Exchange is part of the Council’s Investing in Stockport programme, which the authority hopes will make the town a better place to work, live and visit.

Stockport Council’s executive member for thriving economy, Cllr Patrick McAuley, commented: “I am delighted that work on the next phase of Stockport Exchange has begun on site.

“This and the appointment of Eric Wright Construction as the contractor for this stage of development are a huge step forward in realising our vision for the town centre.

He continued: “The development of Stockport Exchange will bring with it new jobs and opportunities for local residents and businesses which is why it plays such an important part in our Investing in Stockport programme.”

When complete, Stockport Exchange will provide up to 28,000 sq ft of commercial floor space and 375,000 sq ft of office space.

The MD of Eric Wright Construction, John Wilson, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to this project and to be working with Muse Developments again, a company which we have worked with previously to deliver award-winning schemes.

“As a Considerate Constructor with Gold IIP status, we take pride in delivering quality buildings and are pleased to have started on this 16-month project.”

Phase two is expected to be complete in August 2016.