INTRODUCTION

Stockport Labour Group recognises the need for an integrated long-term plan across Greater Manchester covering housing, jobs, infrastructure and economic development. However, our view is this must be done right, with a combination of accurate needs assessment and high quality consultation with residents and their representatives. Further to this, it is important that during these processes, adequate communication of both what the process entails versus the alternatives, and accurate and specific definitions of terms, are essential for public confidence. The proof of the strength of the GMSF process will be the adeptness and responsiveness shown in response to the various phases of consultation.

As such, noting that the GMSF is currently in the first phase of a long process of consultation, Stockport Labour Group will be monitoring developments closely and listening carefully to responses from all parts of Greater Manchester as our response to different phases evolves. The below response seeks to expand upon the forgoing in articulation of Stockport Labour’s position on the first phase of GMSF consultation.