The National Trust has unveiled plans for the next phase of its ambitious redevelopment of Castlefield Viaduct.
Announcing the plans, the group says they hope to extend Manchester’s new sky park to the full 330-metre length of the historic structure, which was once used to carry heavy rail traffic in and out of Manchester Central Station and the Great Northern Warehouse.
What will the extension include?
Phase two plans include adding a second entry and exit point via a lift and stairway to increase accessibility, and introducing more winding paths through planted areas.
The extension will also include WaterAid’s Gold medal-winning garden from this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, designed by architect Je Ahn and landscape designer Tom Massey. The centrepiece of the design is a planted rainwater harvesting pavilion, which filters and stores rainfall for irrigation, while also slowing the flow of heavy downpours and providing shade.
Calum McGowan, Chair of Castlefield Forum, says: “Ever since we clapped eyes on the mighty Viaduct, we have always wondered “what if, why not, and how might we?”. To see it in managed decline always brought a tinge of sadness.
“So to hear that plans are progressing, which will not just double the length of the pilot but secure the very future of this incredible industrial asset, provide a brand new through-route and even more green space for Manchester city centre, is frankly incredible.
“We are very proud to have all this going on in our patch and can’t wait for the next phase to open so that even more people can enjoy it.”
A planning application has now been submitted to Manchester Council and is viewable to the public here.
The National Trust has already secured £400,000 from the National Highways’ Users and Communities Designated Funds programme, but more investment is needed for the extension to become a reality. You can read more about the next stage of the Castlefield Viaduct Project, and make a donation, here.
- Words:
- Brad Lengden
- Published on:
- Wed 25 Sep 2024
