The proposed development includes a 10-screen cinema, a 340 space multi storey car park, shopping and restaurants.

The contract will also include refurbishment works to existing properties on Prince’s Street, a degree of fitting out to the cinema and public realm works.

Subject to a final deal with retailer Debenhams the project may also involve recladding works to the existing store.

Firms have been given a month to complete PQQs ahead of a shortlist of contractors being invited to submit bids in March.

BDP has been working with the council for several years on various masterplan options for the narrow linear site fronting the arterial M60 motorway

Cllr Iain Roberts, executive member for economic development and regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “The high street is changing and we have to make sure our town centre is a great place to spend time, offering leisure activities as well as shopping.

“Developing Bridgefield into a fantastic leisure destination will make Stockport more attractive to visitors, create jobs for local people and boost the local economy.”

Drivers Jonas Deloitte, Lunson Mitchenall and Gardiner & Theobald and Atkins also supported Stockport Council on the development of the scheme.

Bid documentation is available from the chest bid portal.