The development was considered by Stockport Council's Planning and Highways Regulation Committee on the 28th March. Russell LDP and Russell Homes were given resolution to grant hybrid planning permission, subject to Section 106 and conditions.

Up to 60 homes, a 75-bed care facility and 70-apartment affordable Extra Care scheme for the over-55's, have all been earmarked for the 10-acre site off Jacksons Lane in Hazel Grove. Stockport Rugby Union Football Club's Memorial Ground training pitch and facilities will also undergo major revamp as part of the project.

Securing the council's resolution to grant is a significant step forward in enabling us to turn these exciting plans into reality.

The site is located in the heart of Stockport and will provide housing, as well as a range of wider amenities that will cater for people of all ages within the local community. The development will have a much wider positive impact too - it will continue the rugby club's community legacy for the next generation and enable it to maintain its high standards. It will also generate significant economic and social benefits.
Thomas Relph, Associate Land and Planning Director, Russell LDP

More than 200 jobs are anticipated to be created during the construction phase. And in the region of 90 on-site jobs are set to be generated when the doors to the new care home and Extra Care scheme open.

Meanwhile, 60% of the properties will be allocated as affordable housing and 10%, supported housing. The development also incorporates plans to make accessibility improvements in the local area, which include improving footpaths into Happy Valley. There will also be a children's play area, as well as an artificial, all-weather grass pitch at the rugby club that will be available for local schoolchildren to use.

Other rugby club improvements include refurbishing and extending the clubhouse, installing a disabled lift and accessible toilets, and providing women-only changing facilities and a dedicated first aid and physiotherapy room.

Stockport Rugby Union Football Club players with our proposed development

We are incredibly pleased with the positive decision for Russell LDP & Homes, and Stockport Rugby Union Football Club. Alongside the proposals addressing the housing needs of the local area, the permission will be a game-changer for the club.

Enhancing our facilities, and ability to offer a wider range of benefits to all users within the local community, will secure our future and further embed the club into the local community for years to come. We're excited to see this come to life.
Ged Gurney, Chair, Stockport RUFC