Agreement in principle reached for 43 acre park in Stockport

The Land Trust has reached an agreement in principle to take the long term ownership of Mirrlees Fields, 43 acres of public open space in Stockport.

The agreement is subject to MAN Energy Solutions gaining planning consent for proposals to develop an additional 11 acres (4.4Ha) for up to 200 new homes and 10 acres (4.12Ha) of open space on land adjacent to its headquarters in Hazel Grove. Subject to securing planning the land will be sold to a housebuilder and surplus funds reinvested in the business. In total it is proposed around 53.47 acres (21.64Ha) of fully accessible public open space would be created through the proposals.

Mirrlees Fields is a large green space where you can walk in a peaceful, natural environment away from the noise of urban living.

There is a great diversity of wildlife including many species of birds, bats, ancient trees, an orchard, grassland and in the summer, wildflowers. Over fifty species of birds have been seen including buzzards and owls.

It is a beautiful space for families and children, walkers, runners and cyclists (on the bridleway) and is used by schools, scouts and cubs and other youth groups.

Euan Hall, Chief Executive of the Land Trust said:

“We are very pleased to be involved with this project at Mirrlees Fields where we can help to secure a sustainable future for a valued area of local green space. We are looking forward to working with existing stakeholders and new residents to develop a vision for the future which preserves and enhances its existing assets and delivers long term economic and social value for the surrounding community.”

The Land Trust is committed to working with local stakeholders and interest groups on developing a community-led vision for the site with endowment funding of over £1m provided by MAN Energy Solutions which would be invested by the Land Trust to pay for the upkeep of the site in perpetuity.

The agreement with the Land Trust follows an extensive consultation process undertaken on the proposals over the last 12 months with residents, community groups and elected members.