Opening Time at Royal Oak Brewery

Published by JeffMcM for Equity Housing Group in Housing and also in Communities

It wasn’t long ago that the local authority nearly called time on Royal Oak Brewery in Stockport.

For many years this iconic building had been a thriving hub of the local community. But in recent years it lay empty and had fallen into disrepair and was potentially facing demolition. Now after many years of hard work, the site has been restored to form part of an exciting new housing development.

The project has been carried out by Equity Housing Group, a leading housing association in Stockport. Working in partnership with Stockport Council and Southdale, a construction and development specialist, Equity has successfully redeveloped the brewery building, to provide much needed affordable homes. In doing so they have restored and re-established Royal Oak as an iconic landmark within the town.

The development will not only provide an attractive gateway to Stockport, but play a key role in its regeneration. It provides 51 stunning new homes in a striking historical setting, which includes a stunning view of the Pennines.  All but 2 of the homes for sale have already been snapped up and the waiting list for rented properties was closed after just a few days.

Equity's Chief Executive David Fishersaid: "At a time when the economy is a having an impact on the number of new homes built,Royal Oakis a piece of welcome news for Stockport and for the housing sector as a whole. We’re delighted to be able to deliver a scheme that provides affordable homes of such high quality that will make a lasting difference to the area.”

Royal Oak’s official opening was celebrated by an official launch, which was attended by representatives from Equity, local dignitaries and partners involved in the development.

Stockport MP Ann Coffey, cutting the ribbon to officially open the scheme with Equity Chair Brian Ashfield, said: “I am delighted to open this stunning new housing scheme, which has transformed the Royal Oak into affordable homes which we badly need in Stockport. It’s such a good idea to have this mix of rental and shared ownership properties.  Congratulations to Equity Housing Group and everyone involved.”