By following these principles in all that we do, we can raise the local quality of life, and protect the environment for future generations. The Borough of Stockport is popular with developers such as house builders, large stores and other employers. New development is vital to help bring renewal, wealth creation and places to live, work and play. But space for this development is limited and we need to avoid town cramming , which leads to the loss of open space, and increased traffic congestion. The Council places high priority on attracting new employment, particularly in areas of high unemployment.
Local jobs help to reduce commuting.
However, there are a limited number of sites available for development. Greater car ownership has led to traffic congestion which is harmful to our health, the environment and the economy. Locating new development close to good public transport, improving pedestrian and cycle route networks, and reducing available car parking spaces are some ways that development planning can help to lower road traffic. The Government plans to reduce the quantity of waste going to landfill sites, and to require that waste be treated more locally. Stockport already has areas of this nature and has been successful in attracting residents back into the Town Centre.