STOCKPORT GROWTH HOTSPOTS TARGETED FOR EXTRA BUSINESS INVESTMENT

Local MPs Andrew Stunell and Mark Hunter have given a warm welcome to news that Stockport is to have 5 central wards designated for Assisted Area Status.

"Stockport has been setting the pace in investing in its future, with big projects like Stockport Exchange, and the highly successful recruitment of apprentices. Now this welcome new move can be a turbo-boost for more new jobs and investment in the coming years" says Mark Hunter MP.

"I am particularly pleased that important employment areas in Cheadle and Cheadle Hulme will benefit. I will certainly be working with local firms and the Council to see how we can make the best use of the opportunity."

Andrew Stunell MP says the new status highlights the importance of helping young people get the skills they need to take up new high tech jobs across the Borough.

"My campaign to recruit apprentices has been a great success, and the Council's Apprentice Shop is the envy of the North West. We need more of that, and I hope the designation of the Bredbury Business Park can be the springboard for investment in high tech jobs, with Stockport young people getting the best pick."

The status makes local businesses eligible to bid for additional funding and tax breaks to create jobs, invest in new premises or machinery and grow.

In Hazel Grove constituency Bredbury & Woodley has been awarded Assisted Area Status and in the Cheadle constituency Cheadle & Gatley and Cheadle Hulme North wards have been awarded Assisted Area Status.