Heald Green

Not to be confused with Healds Green.

Heald Green
Heald Green Location within Greater Manchester
Area	4.41 km2 (1.70 sq mi)
Population	12,640
• Density	2,866/km2 (7,420/sq mi)
Metropolitan borough	Stockport
Metropolitan county	Greater Manchester
Region	North West
Country	England
Sovereign state	United Kingdom
Post town	CHEADLE
Postcode district	SK8
Dialling code	0161
Police	Greater Manchester
Fire	Greater Manchester
Ambulance	North West
UK Parliament	Cheadle

Heald Green is a suburb of Stockport, in Greater Manchester, England. It is located in the south-west of the Metropolitan Borough of Stockport, near to Manchester Airport and within the boundaries of the historic county of Cheshire. Heald Green is bordered by Gatley and Cheadle to the north, Cheadle Hulme to the east, Handforth and Styal to the south, and Moss Nook and Peel Hall to the west.

Population

Heald Green’s population has seen moderate growth between the 2011 and 2021 Census periods. In 2011, the ward’s population was recorded at 12,440, while by 2021, it had increased to 13,075. This represents a growth of around 5%, reflecting a steady rise over the decade.

The age distribution over this time has maintained a relatively balanced profile, with 21.9% of the population under 18, and 22.6% aged 65 and above. This consistency suggests that while the total population has grown, the proportion of age groups has remained stable, indicating a continuation of the community’s diverse age makeup.

The increase in population reflects both new residents moving into the area and the natural growth of families, maintaining Heald Green’s status as a multigenerational ward. Further details, including age and demographic data, are available online via the Office for National Statistics

Ethnicity

Since the 2000s, Heald Green’s population has seen steady growth and increasing diversity. According to the 2001 Census, the population stood at 12,340, and by 2021, it had risen to 13,075. Alongside this increase, the area’s ethnic composition has shifted, reflecting the growth of various communities, particularly the South Asian population.

As of the 2021 Census, the majority of Heald Green’s residents, 9,025 (approximately 69%), identify as White. A significant 24.5% (3,206 people) of the population identify as Asian, highlighting the strong presence of a South Asian community. Other ethnic groups in the area include:

• White: 9025 residents (69%)
• Asian: 3296 residents (24.5%)
• Mixed/Multiple ethnic groups: 384 residents (2.9%)
• Arab: 154 residents (1.2%)
• Black: 113 residents (0.9%)
• Other ethnic groups: 194 residents (1.5%).

These figures demonstrate Heald Green’s growing multicultural makeup, which has contributed to the area’s rich cultural fabric.

Community

Heald Green is home to a variety of online community groups that offer residents a platform to connect, share local news, and collaborate on community initiatives. Many of these groups are hosted on social media platforms.

Heald Green Community Group has become the leading neighbourhood forum, with over 7,000 members as of 2024. Established in 2017, the group is managed by a team of admins and moderators who review all posts before approval, ensuring that content adheres to the group’s rules. It maintains an apolitical stance, with a focus on community engagement and local matters, while strictly limiting business promotions.

The group has worked to create a trusted environment by actively removing inauthentic profiles and addressing disruptive behaviour. This consistent effort to maintain a respectful and safe space for members has contributed to its popularity and reputation as a reliable platform for residents to discuss local issues and share information. The group’s moderation practices are key factors in its ongoing growth and the high level of trust it enjoys within the Heald Green community.

Heald Green’s online groups play an important role in sharing timely information, including updates on local developments, crime prevention efforts, and recommendations for local businesses. They also serve as spaces for residents to voice concerns on issues like planning applications and infrastructure improvements within Heald Green.

Heald Green has several niche online groups focused on specific interests or causes. For example, there are groups dedicated to preserving the area’s local history, where members share archival photographs and personal anecdotes about Heald Green’s past.

Environmental groups have strengthened community engagement in Heald Green, enabling residents to discuss gardening and ongoing issues with development.

Village Hall

With its rich history and wide range of offerings, Heald Green Village Hall forms an essential part of local life.

Established under community management in 1995, it serves as a key hub for local activities and events. Originally handed over by Stockport Council to a volunteer committee, the hall has grown into a vibrant space for residents to come together for both recreational and social purposes. Its facilities, which include three rooms available for hire, a stage, kitchen, and full disabled access, make it a versatile venue for a wide variety of uses, from meetings to fitness classes and community gatherings.

The hall offers a diverse range of activities, catering to different interests within the community. Regular fitness classes help residents stay active, while creative pursuits are supported through the Art Group and Sewing for Pleasure sessions. Social gatherings like the Heald Green Probus Clubs and the Heald Green Friday Hub foster offer opportunities for discussions, games, and social interaction. The hall also hosts Karate classes, Bollywood Dancing, and Line Dancing, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.

Local Shops

Heald Green’s village centre continues to offer a variety of convenient shopping and services, despite some recent changes. While Beefeater Grill has closed and Bargain Booze is set to follow, residents can still rely on a range of stores, including a Co-op, Morrisons Local, and Londis, to meet their everyday needs.

The village also has two Post Offices, one located on Finney Lane and the other on Wilmslow Road, ensuring easy access to postal services. Although there are no banks in the village, these shops and services help maintain a strong sense of community and local convenience.

In addition to the village centre, Nixon’s Farm on Bolshaw Road is a beloved local institution that has been serving Heald Green since the 1930s. Offering a butchers, farm shop, and a popular tea room, Nixon’s Farm is known for its high-quality, locally sourced meats, produce, and baked goods. The farm also features indoor and outdoor play areas for children, making it a popular family destination. With its rich history and community events, Nixon’s Farm continues to be a cherished part of Heald Green’s rural heritage, blending traditional farming with modern engagement.

Food & Beverages

Heald Green is home to a variety of food venues, offering something for every palate. One of the standout spots is SOL’S Takeaway, known for its fresh and satisfying takeaway options, including pizzas and kebabs, making it a favourite for those in search of a quick and tasty meal.

For a more relaxed café experience, Cappuccino’s on Finney Lane is a go-to destination. This cosy café serves up delicious coffee alongside a wide selection of breakfast and lunch options. With its freshly made sandwiches, salads, and pastries, Cappuccino’s is perfect for a casual meal or coffee break in a welcoming environment.

Café on the Lane provides another great option for those looking to enjoy light meals and coffee in a friendly setting. Its laid-back vibe makes it an ideal spot to meet friends or enjoy a peaceful lunch.

For lovers of traditional South Asian sweets and snacks, Nafees is the place to go. Known for its wide selection of freshly made mithai and savoury treats, Nafees offers a taste of authentic flavours that draw in locals and visitors alike.

The Brew offers a more modern café experience, with artisanal coffee and a contemporary menu. It’s a popular spot for those seeking quality coffee and a trendy, laid-back atmosphere.

For those wanting a traditional pub experience, The Griffin Pub on Finney Lane (Griffin lights) offers hearty pub fare, from Sunday roasts to fish and chips, alongside a great selection of drinks. The pub regularly hosts live events and is a lively hub for social gatherings in the area.

Together, these food venues reflect the diversity and warmth of Heald Green’s dining scene, providing plenty of options for both casual and more indulgent experiences.

Sport

Heald Green is home to a vibrant football scene, with local teams playing in various leagues. One notable club is the Heald Green Eagles, which competes in the East Cheshire Sunday Football League (ECSFL). The Eagles play their home matches at William Scholes Playing Fields and have a strong community presence, regularly competing against other local teams. Their matches attract a range of spectators, and the club fosters both competitive spirit and community engagement. Over the years, they’ve had a mix of results, reflecting the typical highs and lows of grassroots football.

Cheadle & Gatley Junior Football Club also operates out of Heald Green, specifically at Cross Road. This club offers football training and matches for younger players, making it a crucial part of the local football development pathway . These clubs provide opportunities for both youth and adults to participate in football, making Heald Green an active hub for the sport in the region. The Club Hub operates as a Community Interest Company (CIC), meaning it is designed to benefit the community by providing facilities for sports and leisure activities. It has become an important part of local life, offering a space for residents of Heald Green to come together for both recreational and social purposes

Ethnicity

Ethnic white groups (British, Irish, other) account for 90.4% (11,440 people) of the population, with 9.6% (1200 people) being in ethnic groups other than white. Of the 9.6% (1200 people) in non-white ethnic groups:

• 144 (12%) belonged to mixed ethnic groups
• 881 (73.4%) were Asian or Asian British
• 47 (3.9%) were Black or Black British
• 128 (10.7%) were Chinese or other ethnic groups

Religion

According to the 2021 Census, the majority of residents, 9,025 (69%), identify as White. A significant proportion, 3,206 (about 24.5%), identify as Asian, reflecting a large South Asian community. Smaller percentages include 384 people identifying as Mixed/Multiple ethnic groups, 154 as Arab, 113 as Black, and 194 as belonging to other ethnic groups. For further detailed data, you can explore the Office for National Statistics (ONS) interactive map

• Christian: 5,792 (44.3%)
• Muslim: 2,879 (22%)
• No religion: 3,293 (25.2%)
• Hindu: 177
• Jewish: 80
• Sikh: 55
• Buddhist: 21
• Other religions: 93

Transport

Heald Green station, looking south towards Styal

Buses

The Bee Network provides bus services to Heald Green, helping to connect the area with Greater Manchester. Some of the key bus routes operating through Heald Green include the 758 service, which runs between Cheadle and Heald Green. Other routes, such as the 130 (connecting Manchester Airport, Wilmslow, and Macclesfield), also serve the area.

These routes are part of the broader Bee Network initiative, which aims to integrate bus, tram, and cycling networks across Greater Manchester, making travel more accessible and sustainable.

Trains

Heald Green railway station (opened in 1909), is located on the Styal Line and provides regular services to key destinations such as Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Airport, and Wilmslow. Operated by Northern Trains, Heald Green station has two platforms and accessible facilities. The station has seen improvements over the years, including ticketing machines, waiting areas, and step-free access.

Worship

Heald Green is home to several places of worship that reflect its diverse religious community. Christ Church is a Roman Catholic parish located on Finney Lane, which offers regular services and is known for its welcoming community atmosphere. Another prominent church is St Catherine’s Church, a Church of England parish on Outwood Road, serving the local Anglican community with weekly services and various community activities. Additionally, the Heald Green Methodist Church on Brown Lane also plays a key role in the area, supporting Methodist worshippers and offering a range of social events.

Heald Green is also served by the Cheadle Masjid on Wilmslow Road, offering facilities for prayer and religious gatherings, as well as the Stockport Muslim Foundation, which is located on Finney Lane.

Life Church is an evangelical Christian church located on Outwood Road. It is known for its modern style of worship and offers a range of community-focused services, including youth programmes, community outreach, and events. The church is dedicated to spreading a message of faith through practical community engagement, drawing people from both Heald Green and the surrounding areas.

Long Lane Church, situated on Long Lane, provides a community space for worship and various local activities. Though smaller than some of the other churches, it plays an essential role in local life, hosting prayer meetings and gatherings that cater to both spiritual and social needs of the community

See also

• Listed buildings in Cheadle and Gatley