STOCKPORT

urban area and metropolitan borough in the southeastern part of the metropolitan county of Greater Manchester, England. Most of the borough, including the historic town of Stockport, lies in the historic county of Cheshire, but it includes an area west of the River Tame and north of the River Mersey in the historic county of Lancashire. Granted a charter in 1220, the original settlement stood on the southern slope of a narrow gorge where the Rivers Tame and Goyt meet to form the Mersey; the modern borough has spread over the more level higher ground. Cotton spinning was Stockport's staple industry in the 19th century, and hat making dates from the 18th century. Diversification has brought industries ranging from electronics to heavy engineering, plastics, and food processing. Modern Stockport is also a residential area for Manchester commuters, with large tracts of new housing. In addition to Stockport proper, the metropolitan borough includes the urban area of Cheadle, the towns of Bramhall, Romiley, and Marple, and areas of open countryside. Area 49 square miles (126 square km). Pop. (1998 est.) 292,800.