Plans and start date confirmed for transformation of Withingon public spaces

A start date has been set to transform two of Withington’s key public spaces.

Earlier this year Manchester Council ran a consultation asking locals what changes they would like to see made to the area’s public areas.

A significant number of those who took part (72%) said they would support improvements to Copson Street and Rutherford Place; changes which would see a ‘pedestrian-first mindset at their core’ with a more attractive environment using trees, planting and more seating with quality paving.

From Mon 4 Nov, work will start on Rutherford Place until late December. Then, following the mandated pause on works over the Christmas period works will resume from early January, on Copson Street as well as Rutherford Place – the square outside Withington Library – with a planned finish by the end of March 2025.

What changes will be made?

Changes to Copson Street will include:

• Part pedestrianisation between Wilmslow Road/Patten Street

• New tree planting

• Improvements to lighting and seating

• Prohibition of vehicles apart from cyclists, loading/unloading, access or Blue Badge Holders

Changes to Rutherford Place will include:

• Davenport Avenue will be made one-way towards Wilmslow Road, deterring non-local traffic

• A one-way southbound route will be introduced along Wellington Road from its junction at Lausanne Road

• Closing a small portion of Wellington Road outside Withington Library

• Rippingham Road will be made one-way westbound, rather than eastbound

• The square will also be expanded and improved to create a more welcoming and open public space outside the library – a well used and important local amenity

Councillor Gavin White, Executive Member for Housing and Development said: “As a Council we are keen to continue investing across all our district centres, making genuine and lasting improvements that will greatly improve their amenity for local residents.

“On top of this we understand how improved access and public space can increase footfall, provide improve space for businesses to operate and act as a magnet for increased economic opportunity for the area.

“Pride of place is something that we are deeply invested in, and through this scheme we want to provide residents of Withington a public square and surrounding amenities that not only make them feel proud, but areas that can act as a focal point for something more. Meeting friends, holding community events and simply providing more space for living is what this project is all about.”