Construction workers at huge new Manchester development make incredible historic find

Those working on a trendy £60million development made an amazing discovery after uncovering remains of 17th-century steps. It comes as the multi-million pound redevelopment of one of Stockport'soldest buildings in Greater Manchester is expected to be completed early next year.

Those behind the transformation of Weir Mill into a trendy new neighbourhood revealed they have unearthed steps leading to the River Mersey that are believed to be more than 300 years old. Weir Mill, on the banks of the famous river in the town centre, is currently the subject of a huge renovation project.

The mill buildings are in the process of being restored and transformed into new homes with two new-build blocks, including a 14-storey tower, having also been erected on the site.

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Once the development is complete, it will see the creation of 253 apartments, 87 in the historic mill buildings and 166 in the new builds, the Manchester Evening News reports.

It will also boast new independent bars, eateries, coffee shops and stores as well as two new public squares and green space in what bosses say will become a 'vibrant new destination for Stockport and visitors alike.'

It is a key part of the ongoing £1billion redevelopment of the town centre and surrounding areas.

The original mill, sometimes referred to as Wear Mill, dates back to 1790 when it was built by cotton manufacturer John Collier and was deemed to be a 'local icon of the industrial revolution.'

It was water-powered, standing just 500 metres from the source of the Mersey, at the confluence of the River Tame and River Goyt.

Very little is documented about the original 1790 building, which was destroyed in a devastating fire in 1831, started by a spark from the boiler house alighting some nearby hessian.

Weir Mill was rebuilt, water power having ceased in favour of steam by 1834.

However, the new mill incorporated parts of the 1790s foundations. The mill pre-dates the Stockport Viaduct, which was built over the mill’s engine house in 1840.

After decades without any TLC, the mill was, according to bosses at Capital and Centric (C&C), who took it on and came up with the redevelopment plans, 'at risk of being lost forever.'

And one previously uncovered feature has been saved they have revealed.

Steps have been uncovered which pre-date the mill's cotton works era in the 18th and 19th centuries, are the 'latest find in the rich story of the site’s past' they say.

They are now to be 'carefully restored' and 'put on show to future residents.'

They will be visible from a new cantilever walkway that will lead to the river terrace overlooking the Mersey.

Capital & Centric, founded by Adam Higgins and Tim Heatley, the star of BBC documentary Manctopia, say the scheme will 'set a higher standard for rentals.'

It will boast its own on-site team of staff offering services such as cleaning and pet-sitting, as well as an app to connect residents with neighbours.

Once finished it will feature a 'lush green outdoor space' for residents and the local community, with new planting and trees as well as new bars, restaurants and shops.

Capital & Centric said in their latest update this week that it the project is 'nearing completion.' They told the Manchester Evening News they are anticipating it will be finished in early 2026.

They said they are currently looking for 'the best indie operators' to fill the commercial aspects of the project, with the first tenants to be announced 'soon.'

Tom Wilmot, Joint Managing Director, said: “Weir Mill’s restoration has uncovered fascinating pieces of history.

"Discoveries like the 17th-century steps are unusual, and they give us another chance to bring the story of the site to life through the restoration.

"We’re excited to show them to future residents.

“Stockport has changed dramatically since we started, and we can’t wait to open the doors and welcome visitors and the community later this year.”

Councillor Mark Roberts, the Leader of Stockport Council, said: “Weir Mill is a flagship scheme within the UK's largest town centre regeneration and shows why Stockport is being recognised nationally as a place that delivers.

"We’re breathing new life into a site that’s stood here for centuries, creating homes, green space and independent businesses that will help shape the next chapter of our town centre.

"As we look to expand the MDC boundary, Weir Mill sets the tone: bold design, big ambition, strong partnerships, and delivery that shows what the MDC and Town Centre West are all about, creating places that people want to live, work and spend time.”