Stopford Park

Torkington, the former 1950s Stockport College behind the War Memorial Museum, is being transformed by reusing its original concrete frame to create 122 modern apartments for rent, with shared spaces and a new commercial unit. By reusing the existing frame, we’ve significantly reduced the carbon footprint, cut down on waste, and limited the need for new materials, all while improving project viability. 

Lyme is Torkington’s next door neighbour, replacing the existing Lyme Centre on Wellington Road. Creating 258 new apartments to rent, this 16-storey building is the largest on the masterplan, with spectacular views from the roof terrace across the town and to the Peak District and beyond. 

Cheers & Smith first met on the streets of Stockport, one bursting with creativity, the other obsessed with industry and getting stuff done. Cheers was drawn to the local cafés, the indie shops, and the art scene. Smith? Well. Smith admired the grit, the old mills, and the thriving businesses that have stood the test of time. Together, they saw potential, a town with a creative heartbeat and a serious work ethic. 

That’s why the first Cheers & Smith was born right here in Stockport. We’re lovingly breathing new life into this landmark Grade II listed building to turn it into a creative flexible workspace, a place that reflects the town itself: where bold ideas meet hard work, and where local businesses can come to grow. From hotdesks and industry events to self-contained studios for ambitious businesses, Cheers & Smith reinvents a piece of Stockport’s heritage for a new generation to enjoy. This heritage building will act as the anchor for Stopford Park, marrying old and new together. Ensuring this new neighbourhood grows up with a good old head on its shoulders.  

Home is where the art is. The creation of a large landscaped garden is unique in the town centre. Not only does it act as the neighbourhood village green, it opens up a new area of public realm that both residents and locals can enjoy. We’ll be working with artists to transform the park into a creative playground by introducing a small art trail of special art installations across the park (including Stockport’s biggest hat!) for everyone. The Art Park will celebrate Stockport’s thriving creative scene and become a place for inspiration and expression, welcoming everyone into the masterplan to sit, stroll and enjoy.