NEWS | Wild About Edgeley Announcement

Groundwork Greater Manchester has been awarded £24,999 from Stockport Council’s Economic Development and Regeneration Flexible Grant (EDRFG) to deliver a community-led neighbourhood greening project that will enhance public spaces in Edgeley.

Wild About Edgeley will bring together young people, residents, businesses and volunteers to create greener, more biodiverse spaces which also strengthen community pride.

The project will see environmental improvements introduced at four sites in Edgeley, including Mercian Way, Booth Street, Shaw Street and at the top of Castle Street. Plans include the planting of almost 18,000 spring and summer flowering bulbs, creating a striking blue-and-white floral corridor inspired by Stockport County FC and enhancing the route between Stockport Station and Edgeley Park Stadium. Additional improvements include the installation of bespoke planters at locations around the Greek Street roundabout and enhancing the existing planters.

The plans will be shared with residents over the coming months, and they will be able to take part in different planting activities. At the heart of the initiative is Groundwork’s successful Green Leaders programme, which will support young people aged 11–17 to design and deliver their own environmental campaigns, social action projects and community events alongside planned work. Participants will develop leadership, communication and teamwork skills while playing an active role in shaping the future of their neighbourhood.

Lucy Stowell-Smith, Strategic Lead for Urban Nature at Groundwork Greater Manchester, said:

Wild About Edgeley is about much more than planting flowers. It’s about empowering residents and young people to become the future custodians of their community, creating greener and healthier places, and building a stronger sense of belonging and pride across Edgeley. By combining nature, heritage and youth-led social action, we want to create lasting change that benefits residents, visitors and local businesses alike.

Cllr Micheala Meikle, Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration and Skills at Stockport Council, said:

It’s fantastic to see this funding coming into Edgeley and to see residents at the heart of shaping and delivering the project. It will also provide a great opportunity for young residents to work alongside local businesses This is a great example of what can be achieved when local people come together with a shared ambition to make Edgeley even better. The improvements will brighten up key parts of the neighbourhood, celebrate what makes Edgeley special and create welcoming spaces for everyone to enjoy.

The project builds on Groundwork Greater Manchester’s successful environmental regeneration work in Stockport town centre, where previous programmes transformed nearly 900 square metres of public realm, engaged more than 400 residents and volunteers, and delivered major biodiversity improvements through community-led planting and creative engagement activities.

Those looking to input their ideas or get involved in the Green Leaders programme or general volunteering are encouraged to email Groundwork on edgeley@groundwork.org.uk