Gorton’s new public square has officially opened

Gorton’s brand-new public square has officially opened following consultations with local people and community groups.

The new square, which is located off Garratt Way between Gorton Market and Tesco, has incorporated the conversion of part of the underused car park into a ‘people-first space’.

The multi-functional space has new trees and plants, seating areas to relax and eat, and space to host events for events and activities for children.

The new Gorton public square includes:

• A flexible space that can host events and pop-up gatherings

• A raised market terrace area with seating for people to relax and an upgraded, outdoor trading space for Gorton Market

• A new nature area with significant planting to screen the square from Garratt Way and introduce biodiversity

• Imaginative interactive play features for young people

• Light projections to animate the space

• Improved and safer walking and cycling routes to and through the local area

• An altered road layout from Garratt Way, to slow traffic, reduce movement conflicts, but maintain access.

The council says that the new Square will enhance the existing market offer, helping to increase footfall and create a destination space, and that there will be further investment in the Square later this year.

The investment is part of the wider ambition for Gorton, set out in the Development Framework for the neighbourhood, and complements other investments in the local area, including the opening of the Gorton Hub community space in 2022.

Leader of the Council Bev Craig said: “We are investing in our local communities across the city because we know how important Manchester’s high streets are to the people they serve. This isn’t just about accessing services easily – like health care and shops – this is also about creating pride in our local spaces and neighbourhoods our residents want to live in.

“We know that Manchester people want to live in welcoming, clean and green communities that support businesses, create jobs and provide opportunities for new affordable housing.

“This is what we’re doing in Gorton, Moston Lane, Withington high street and Wythenshawe town centre – and we have our sights set on other district centres, such as Newton Heath in north Manchester, for future investment that will continue our ongoing commitment to investing in the things our local communities want and need.”