Stockport Proposed for Greater Manchester’s First Purpose-Built Electric Bus Depot

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has unveiled plans to develop the Bee Network’s first purpose-built all-electric bus depot in Stockport, marking a significant step towards the city-region’s ambition of operating a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2030.

The proposed facility would be constructed on the former Lex Autolease site at Heathside Park Road and is intended to replace the existing Daw Bank depot in Stockport town centre, which is scheduled for demolition as part of a major regeneration programme.

The move is closely linked to the Stockport 8 development, a flagship project within the town’s wider £2 billion transformation strategy. The eight-acre scheme, being delivered through a partnership between Stockport Council and ECF, will create a new mixed-use neighbourhood featuring up to 1,300 homes, public spaces and community facilities.

Under the proposals, the new depot would provide capacity for approximately 200 electric buses, complete with dedicated charging infrastructure, maintenance workshops and operational facilities. The site would offer significantly more space and flexibility than the current depot, enabling TfGM to support the continued expansion of the Bee Network’s electric fleet.

The facility is expected to play a key role in reducing transport-related emissions across Greater Manchester while improving air quality and supporting the delivery of quieter, more reliable bus services.

Chris Barnes, TfGM’s Infrastructure Delivery Director, said the project forms part of the organisation’s wider investment programme aimed at modernising public transport and preparing the network for future growth.

He described the Heathside Park Road site as an ideal location for a purpose-built electric bus depot, noting that it would support both the transition to cleaner transport and the ongoing regeneration of Stockport town centre.

TfGM is now preparing to engage with local residents and stakeholders ahead of submitting a planning application later this year.

Stockport Council Leader Mark Roberts welcomed the proposals, highlighting their alignment with two major priorities for the borough: expanding sustainable transport and delivering long-term regeneration.

He said the project would support the Bee Network’s transition to a fully electric fleet while complementing wider plans for housing, public realm improvements and economic growth through the Stockport 8 development.

Roberts also encouraged residents to take part in consultation events to learn more about the plans and provide feedback before the formal planning process begins.

The existing Daw Bank depot is expected to be largely demolished in early 2027, clearing the way for more than 400 new homes as part of the broader redevelopment programme.

Subject to planning approval, construction of the permanent electric depot is expected to begin in 2027, with operations anticipated to commence by the end of 2029.

In the meantime, TfGM plans to establish temporary depot facilities at Heaton Lane and Wood Street to ensure continuity of bus services during the transition period. Work on these interim sites is scheduled to start this summer and be completed by winter.

Unlike the temporary facilities, the Heathside Park Road depot will be designed as a long-term operational hub, featuring electric charging infrastructure, maintenance and servicing workshops, MOT testing facilities, office accommodation, storage areas and room for future expansion.

The proposal represents another milestone in the ongoing development of the Bee Network and Greater Manchester’s wider commitment to delivering a cleaner, more integrated and sustainable public transport system for the future.