The Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) has appointed Eamonn Boylan, chief executive of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), as interim chair at the organisation, following the passing of Lord Kerslake earlier this month.
Boylan was chief executive of Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council for six years prior to taking up the role at the GMCA. He will be tasked with overseeing delivery of the 130-acre Town Centre West masterplan in Stockport, which will see the creation of 4,000 new homes, a new transport hub and business district, new public realm and green spaces and new local amenities.
Boylan said: “While it is under incredibly sad circumstances that I take up this role, I am honoured to advocate for the MDC and bring my experience to this role to ensure we continue to build on the fantastic foundation Lord Kerslake created for Stockport. I look forward to working with our public and private sector partners to make Stockport one of the most sustainable, liveable and well-connected town centres in the country.”
Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, added: “Eamonn Boylan will act as a strong ambassador for Stockport MDC, bringing invaluable knowledge and a deep understanding of the town and its community from his previous experience in Stockport. In this role Eamonn will ensure the £500m masterplan for Town Centre West will continue to move forwards.
“Eamonn will serve as a vital bridge between Stockport MDC and the GMCA, enhancing collaboration between the two organisations. I am confident that Eamonn will ensure he and the MDC build on the legacy of the late, great Lord Kerslake.”
Mark Hunter, leader of Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council and group leader, said: “On behalf of all of us at Stockport MBC and Stockport MDC, we are extremely grateful for Eamonn Boylan stepping in as interim chair during this time. His wide-ranging experience and track record in bringing forward major regeneration projects will ensure the realisation of the Town Centre West masterplan, and its transformative impact on Stockport.
“Under Eamonn, the MDC will honour the legacy of Lord Kerslake and continue to deliver against the ambitious vision to create a thriving Stockport, ensuring iconic projects such as Stockport Exchange, Interchange and Weir Mill stay on track, enabling us to deliver a vital new transport hub, business district and new homes to the town. Beyond this, the coming months will be crucial to the shaping the next phase of development in Town Centre West, including the exciting masterplan for Stockport8.”
