£6m Longford Park improvement works given green light

Major renovation works are set to get underway at Longford Park after Trafford Council confirmed it had finalised contracts following a period of planning and preparation.

Work will begin at the end of the month on the construction phase of the People, Place and Nature Project. The year of work will include revamping the popular Pets’ Corner, gardens and play areas, as well as adding new seating and signage.

Central to the project will be the regeneration of the Long Barn into a sustainable, energy-efficient, community space. The former footprint of Longford Hall will also be reinterpreted to celebrate the site’s history, creating a unique and inviting area for visitors to explore.

Boses say the aim is to create a better park for all ages and abilities to enjoy, with enhanced play, recreational and sports facilities, greater biodiversity and resilience to the impacts of climate change.

Cllr Barry Winstanley, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, said: “We are delighted that this exciting project is moving forward and we thank everyone involved for their patience as we reach this important point in the timeline.

“Local people will be able to see their beloved park changing and improving over the next few months and there will be all sorts of ways to get involved and be a part of this exciting, landmark process.”

The project team is planning opportunities for local people to volunteer and get involved in other ways during the major process, funded by more than £3m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the remainder from a range of partners.

Rochdale-based Casey Group, which has extensive experience delivering high-quality construction, civil engineering and regeneration projects that enhance communities and improve local areas, will undertake the works.

Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It’s fantastic news that this ambitious and transformational project for one of Trafford’s most well-loved parks can now get underway. We’re thrilled to support Trafford Council with this project thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, and we’re excited to see its progress and how this wonderful green space will be enjoyed by local communities and visitors for years to come.”

The Council and partners say they will do their best to minimise disruption during the construction work, and keep as many facilities open as possible, though it will be necessary to close certain areas for safety during work. Updates and latest information will be available on the People, Place and Nature Project pages of the Council website.

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