Plans have been submitted for 567 new homes on the edge of Woodford village in Stockport, which would join an adjacent major development to bring the total number of new homes in the area to more than 1,300. The proposal, submitted by Michael Conroy on behalf of Stantec, includes up to 423 homes and an extra care facility for people over 55 with up to 72 beds, along with shops, food and drink venues up to 100 square metres, new health services, a nursery or day centre, and a new nature park.
Site Location and Context
The development site is located off Chester Road in Woodford and currently sits within the green belt. Approximately 2,900 people live in Woodford according to 2024 estimates, and the 2021 Census recorded 858 households. The plans are included in a draft version of Stockport Council's local plan, which will set out development across the borough until 2042. Some buildings and trees on the site will be removed, but no ancient woodland is affected.
Connection to Woodford Garden Village
Stantec points to the nearby Woodford Garden Village, built on the former Woodford Aerodrome, as an example of the area's transformation. That development includes up to 775 homes, a new pub, an extra care unit, and a primary school. It was initially refused by Stockport Council but allowed on appeal due to the delivery of new housing and public open space. The council has sought a judicial review of that decision, which is ongoing.
Developer's Vision
In a planning document, Stantec stated: "The proposed vision is to create a new sustainable, high-quality neighbourhood which significantly improves the local housing offer in Woodford by delivering a range of house types to meet a variety of housing needs, including affordable dwellings, aspirational homes for young people and families, larger higher value homes, and homes for the elderly." The scheme aims to follow 'garden village' principles, with development set within an attractive landscaped setting and emphasis on green infrastructure.
Nature Park and Opposition
The new nature park will feature wildflower and grass meadows, ponds, new hedgerows, tree planting, a community orchard, and a wildlife zone. However, the plans face local opposition, with more than 180 comments submitted at the time of publication.
