Rediscovering The Underbanks Townscape Heritage Survey

Following Stockport Council securing an award of £1.79m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund in 2018 for the Rediscovering the Underbanks Townscape Heritage scheme, we asked how you would like the funds to be used.

The online survey which attracted 656 responses found that residents were concerned about the neglect of buildings in the Underbanks and the number of closed shops.

Most of the respondents said that they visit the Underbanks for shopping, hospitality and socialising, and around half ticked “culture and heritage” as a motivation for visiting. A smaller, but still significant proportion (90) said they were there for work, suggesting a particular interest in the refurbishment and revitalisation of the area.

Several residents felt that Rediscovering the Underbanks, if successful, will help the project's overarching objective, to be "a better place to live, work and visit".

We have already began building repairs across the Underbanks. For example, refurbishing the outside of 30-32 Little Underbank to give it a more attractive physical appearance due to its prominent position on the street.

We are also refurbishing 13 Little Underbank due to its significant heritage value and its prominent location adjacent to the bridge and steps to Market Place. This has included redecoration of all joinery and the shopfront and signage being reinstated.

As well as restoration works, we are looking to build awareness of the significance of the area's heritage. For example, we have appointed 3 apprentice heritage trainees. We will also organise events to educate the community on its heritage, which will encourage greater spend and interest in the Underbanks.