Historic mill in Stockport provides inspiration for new housing and community

CGI from BDP of Weir Mill development in Stockport

Architects and engineering practice BDP is moving ahead with designs for a mixed use, 253-home development at Weir Mill, Stockport having been given approval for the scheme by Stockport Council.

The plans for client Capital & Centric, include restoration of the mill buildings and the construction of two new buildings to create a thriving new community.

The news follows a report by Historic England suggesting that vacant mills in the north of England could provide up to 9,000 new homes.

The new development, which is supported by £7 million of Housing Infrastructure Fund cash from Homes England, will include 60,000 square feet of new waterfront outdoor public space and 24,000 square feet of shops and leisure facilities.

The refurbished Grade 11 listed former cotton mill will feature a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as 24,000 square feet of commercial space across the existing and new buildings. The adjoining West Shed is intended as a relaxed and flexible co-working space, set amongst the brick vaulted ceilings.

Co-founder of Capital & Centric, Adam Higgins said:

'The reality is that this stunning historic mill, parts of which date back as far as the late 1700s, were at risk of being lost forever. Thanks to Stockport's support, we can not only save Weir Mill, but make it one of the main storylines in Stockport's next chapter.'

Weavers Square, a new public space, will create a flexible venue for markets and events, and is located next to the Grade 11 listed Stockport Viaduct, giving people the opportunity to experience the scale of the amazing structure up close. The square will feature retained cast-iron columns from the site's former weavers' shed, while West Courtyard, another of the development's outdoor spaces, provides a green oasis for residents.

Architect Director at BDP Mark Braund, said:

'This project presents an exciting opportunity to showcase how innovative, people-centred design can bring a dilapidated mill building in a key location in Stockport into vibrant new use. These plans will go a long way towards expressing the importance of the mill's place in the town's industrial heritage, whilst linking the development into wider regeneration, creating a prosperous and important place.'