In its own way, it was an icon.
Stockport's treasures can always be reeled off: the viaduct, the pyramid, the plaza, and the hat works - but there is one town building that was just as important over the decades.
That is, of course, the bus station - with thousands of residents funnelling through its doors to get from A to B.
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However, it is no more.
New photos reveal that the town centre’s bus station has been levelled — bringing about the end of the building which has stood since 1981.
In its place, a new ‘modern transport interchange’ will be constructed, Transport for Greater Manchester (TFGM) says.
The £120 million project is part of a £1 billion investment into the borough, transport chiefs say, and will include 20 bus stands, fully covered passenger concourse, and two acre park above the facility.
Council figures say its replacement will ‘transform’ the town centre — but also recognise that the existing facilities have ‘served’ Stockport ‘well’.
“This is a landmark moment for the town centre and our borough as we finally say goodbye to the current station that’s served us so well since it opened 40 years ago,” Coun David Meller, cabinet member for economy and regeneration said in August, when it was announced the old station would be razed.
He added: “Many a Stopfordian has passed through it and the memories it conjures up will live on.
“Nevertheless, the current station has had its time and Stockport Interchange promises to transform our town centre for the better with its new two-acre park above while further embedding Stockport’s commitment to sustainable and active travel.”
The new interchange will also be kitted out with seating, fully accessible toilets and changing facilities, cycle storage, and a Travelshop.
It is hoped the park above will be used as a space for events, festivals and community gardening.
The plans also include a pedestrian and cyclist link from Interchange Park to Station Road and a cycle lift providing access to the nearby Trans Pennine Trail.
With the new scheme set to open in Spring 2024, a temporary station on Heaton Lane is already in place.
