Portico gets green light for historic library expansion

The Portico Library has been granted planning permission as plans for a historic expansion of the building move a step forward.

Developed through Portico Reunited — the Library’s capital and creative transformation project — the proposed plans will open all floors of the Grade II* building for the first time in more than a century, restore its Mosley Street entrance, and create a fully accessible, sustainable home for stories, reading, and new ideas.

In a major milestone, Manchester Council has now approved planning permission and listed building consent for the £11m project. The Portico will now focus on finalising technical designs and preparing its Delivery Phase submission to The National Lottery Heritage Fund in early 2026, alongside an expanded fundraising campaign to raise the remaining £3 million in match funding required to unlock major investment.

John Carpenter, Chair of the Portico Library, said: “This is an important day for the Portico and for Manchester. Planning approval recognises the care and ambition behind our plans and allows us to move forward with confidence — preparing for the next stage and continuing to build the partnerships and funding needed to bring this project to life.”

Key proposals for The Portico’s expansion include:

• Reinstating the Mosley Street entrance and providing step-free access to all public areas
• Restoring the historic interiors and glazed dome
• Introducing the Northern Bookshop, a new Portico Kitchen, and flexible learning and exhibition spaces
• Installing low-carbon heating and environmental improvements to protect the building and its collections

Construction is expected to start in 2028, following fundraising and design stages. The building will close temporarily during works and reopen around Autumn 2029. You can read more about The Portico’s Reunited project here.