June 2024
Stockport Interchange Scopes Community Impact Award
Cityheart, alongside Rise Homes, Stockport Council, GMCA, Transport for Greater Manchester and Willmot Dixon were recognised for Stockport Interchange by winning the ‘Community Impact of the year’ at Cowgills North West Homebuilders Awards. We were presented with the award by Royle Family star Ralph Little at a celebration evening held at Manchester’s New Century Hall.
The scheme, which embodies innovation, sustainability and community empowerment, comprises 196 1, 2 and 3-bedroom build to rent apartments and will help to address the shortage of good quality housing in the town centre. The mixed-use development also includes a new transport hub and a two-acre town centre park and has been central to kickstarting regeneration across the town.
The judges agreed that the integration of the park, which was designed following extensive community involvement and consultation, not only enhances green space but also fosters community engagement and well-being, featuring play equipment, community space, cycle paths and a footbridge linking it with the town’s railway station and provides fantastic access and facilities for the residents of the apartments.
Commenting on winning the award Warren Taylor, Chief Operating Officer of Cityheart said: “This is another fantastic award for The Interchange and we are especially honoured that it has won the Community Impact category as it recognises the hard work so many people have put into working with the community and local businesses, in particular our contractor Willmott Dixon.
“We are incredibly proud of the development and its impact on Stockport and are looking forward to continuing our involvement with Stockport’s transformation as our scheme on Greek Street and Wellington Road South comes forward this year.”
Through initiatives like the Building Lives Academy, the project has equipped individuals with valuable skills and opportunities in the construction industry, addressing unemployment and supporting economic growth, leaving a lasting legacy for the community of Stockport. The project’s emphasis on fair employment practices, apprenticeship programmes, and partnerships with educational institutions further underscores the team’s commitment to leaving a positive legacy.
Built by Willmott Dixon, the construction team focussed on community integration, generating job opportunities for local people and supporting local businesses through the supply chain. 56% of project spending was directed towards firms within 20 miles of Stockport, supporting the local economy and fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.
But one of the key aspects of the scheme is that it has brought forward further regeneration across Stockport. As one of the first regeneration projects to commence in the area, it has kick started development across the town and has increased the appetite for future development, impacting hugely on the community and its wealth building.
Stockport Interchange is a joint venture between Stockport Council, Transport for Greater Manchester and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, in conjunction with development partner, CityRise (a joint venture partnership between Cityheart and Rise Homes).
Last month The Interchange also won ‘Best Funding Structure’ at The International Partnership Awards. It has also been nominated for Best Development (over 100 homes) at The British Homes Awards, with the winners being announced at the ceremony in September which takes place in London.
ENDS
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