Ancoats Green reopens after major refurbishment

Ancoats Green has officially reopened to the public following an extensive renovation project in the heart of the community.

Part of a wider £40m public realm programme dedicated to continuing the internationally renowned regeneration of the neighbourhood, the rejuvenated park space features high-quality multi-functional open spaces, new and accessible play areas, open grasslands, broad footpaths and even places for small events.

New walking and cycling routes connecting the park to the city centre will encourage active travel, while new wildflower areas and trees enhance the area’s biodiversity.

The major project has drawn inspiration from Ancoats’ industrial heritage, with design elements referencing historic flint glass works in harmony with sustainable construction, with reclaimed and upcycled materials taken from both the Our Town Hall and Albert Square projects, walling stone from the former Prussia Canal arm that once ran through the park and more.

Ancoats Green transformation in numbers:

• 1.06ha renewed park space
• 2823m2 of wildflower meadow planting
• 420m2 of new planted areas
• 63% net increase in trees – any trees removed (either due to disease or those with a limited life span) have been replaced 2:1
• Highly sustainable design with many of new surfaces made from reclaimed materials to create a permeable drainage system.

Leader of the Council Bev Craig said: “We’re on a mission to invest more in our parks and green spaces. With over 150 parks and green spaces in Manchester, Ancoats Green is the latest park in our city centre to be created or refurbished to make sure our residents have access to brilliant green spaces. The Green will be the heart of this community, a place local people can take pride in, spend time with family and friends, and find a respite from the bustle of the city – all in a low traffic, sustainable neighbourhood.

“This is also part of a £40m public realm investment in this part of Ancoats – including the new Mobility Hub – which is helping to unlock the next phase of regeneration in the neighbourhood – and the final chapters of a regeneration story going back two decades.

“Building on the Ancoats success story the next phase of investment will see 1,500 new homes built, which includes the Council’s first This City housing development at No. 1 Ancoats Green that will complete in the next few months – helping to increase access to genuinely affordable homes in the city centre.

“Ancoats Green is a great example of the council investing more in the priorities that residents tell us they want to see and is a beautiful addition to this area of the city.”

(Image credit: Manchester City Council)