Decision in Stockport Town Centre Could Lead to 12-Month Catastrophe
A car park closure in Greater Manchester raises concerns for local businesses
Bramhall, Stockport, Greater Manchester, United Utilities, Local Businesses
Bramhall: A shopping centre car park in Greater Manchester is closing for up to a year. Traders are worried this could be a disaster for their businesses.
The Village Square car park will shut in spring when United Utilities starts work to improve water quality in Micker Brook. This project is part of a £5.9 million investment to upgrade storm overflow systems nearby.
During the closure, drivers will be directed to the Meadway car park, which is just a five-minute walk away. But local shop owners fear this will keep customers away.
Last year, Anna Sheridan, who runs Plumcake Cafe, expressed her concerns about the potential impact on her business. She mentioned losing staff who found jobs elsewhere due to the uncertainty.
“We’re trying to stay positive, but it’s a long time,” she said. “We just want them to push it back so they can work longer hours when it’s lighter.”
The car park had a brief closure last September for initial work, and some visitors noted the area felt deserted during that time.
Zoe McVaigh, owner of Ceramics and Chill, believes businesses will adapt. She acknowledged that foot traffic dropped during the last closure but reminded everyone that there’s plenty of parking in Bramhall.
“We need to remind customers that shopping local is important, and the next car park is just a few minutes away,” she added.
United Utilities aims to finish the work quickly and has provided local businesses with a form to report profit losses. They also encourage Blue Badge holders to apply for parking passes from Stockport council.
Traffic management will be in place to ensure safety during the construction, which is expected to last until Summer 2025.
Residents and business owners can learn more about the project at a drop-in event on January 16, 2025, at Nook & Broom in Bramhall.