Glenbrook progresses 64,000 sq ft Stok

The developer has submitted a change of use application to transform the former M&S store on Princes Street in Stockport into a mixed-use commercial scheme, after buying the unit last year.

The proposed scheme, known as Stok, will provide 64,000 sq ft of office accommodation across two large, open-plan floors, with leisure and retail facilities in the basement and ground floor.

The building will also feature a central glazed atrium, three lifts, cycle storage, drying facilities and an outdoor terrace on the second floor.

Glenbrook Property purchased the retail unit in Stockport town centre from M&S for an undisclosed sum.

The developer already as permission to start preparatory work at the empty building, and last December appointed contractor AW Demolition to strip out the interior and prepare the unit for remodelling into office and leisure space.

Redundant plant equipment has been removed from the roof and some of the building’s original features such as timber floors and ceiling beams have been revealed for the first time in years, according to Glenbrook.

Meanwhile, the old escalators have been removed and the strip-out phase is due to complete in early August.

AEW Architects designed the project and Avison Young advised on planning. Design specialist Incognito is fitting out the interiors.

Chris Lloyd, investment director at Glenbrook, said: “We have been working closely with the council to ensure that the scheme complements the ongoing plans for Stockport town centre and are pleased to have made good progress under such testing recent conditions.

“This is another milestone in the delivery of Stok, which will provide much needed, flexible office space in the heart of Stockport – arguably one of Greater Manchester’s most desirable towns for businesses looking to relocate out of the city centre.”

CBRE and Edwards & Co is the office agent for the scheme and Metis Real Estate is the leisure and retail agent.