Plans to create new multi-generational community in Stockport town centre are moving forward with the appointment of Rowlinson as contractor to build St Thomas’ Gardens,
The development, being delivered by Stockport Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority, will bring together housing, health, and community services, creating a dynamic living space for all ages.
At the heart of the scheme is a state-of-the-art care facility, which will become an integral part of Stockport Council’s vision for integrated health and social care in the borough.
The council acquired the former St Thomas’ Hospital site from Homes England to create an all-age residential project and it will include an exemplar 82-bed intermediate care scheme called the Academy of Living Well, built with sustainability at its heart.
The Academy will provide support for people transitioning between hospital and home to support the borough’s approach to health and social care integration. The vision for St Thomas’ Gardens is closely aligned with Stockport’s broader ambition of creating the most liveable town centre in the UK.
Stockport Homes will also bring forward much-needed affordable homes at St Thomas’ Gardens, which will breathe new life into some of the borough’s most important Grade II listed heritage buildings. The homes will offer a mix of shared ownership and social rent.
As part of the wider Town Centre West regeneration project, which has already delivered 1,200 new homes and 170,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, this development will stand out as a trailblazer for multi-generational living.
The inclusion of homes, healthcare, and community spaces is designed to bring generations together and reflects a forward-thinking approach to modern living.
Cllr Colin Macalister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “It’s fantastic news that we can confirm Rowlinson as construction partner on this project so we can bring this historic site forward, so it can be preserved and reimagined for modern, town centre living for all ages.
“The new care facility will provide the right support for those transitioning between hospital and home and will be at the heart of this new community.
“Our ambitious plans are continuing at pace, which is evident across the town centre. The new transport interchange has made Stockport more accessible than ever, and with 1,600 new homes already delivered to date and another 1,400 due to start on site by 2026 – including affordable options – we’re delivering much-needed homes that future generations can call home.”
David Chilton, managing director, Rowlison said, “We’re proud to be constructing this pioneering development that will revolutionise the care model in Stockport by offering support when it’s needed most. It will breathe new life into the former St Thomas’ hospital site and we’re anticipating starting construction in the latter part of October 2024.
The St Thomas’ Hospital site was originally built in 1841 as a workhouse and infirmary. It was later used as an NHS facility until 2004.
