Developers Peel L&P have unveiled early proposals for an eventual £1 billion redevelopment of Pomona Island in Trafford.
Following a period of public consultation, the revamped masterplan – which is said to cover almost 25 acres of currently-underdeveloped Brownfield land – would transform around 60% of the masterplan area for public usage, as well as open space to help “promote active lifestyles and the natural beauty of the waterfront site” – which is surrounded by both the Manchester Ship Canal and the Bridgewater Canal.
The plans feature around 2,700 homes – including apartments and townhouses – as well as a leisure and commercial space, which would be built on the remaining land.
Plans were also submitted for a 162-home private rent scheme at Pomona Wharf last week.
On top of the residential redevelopments, Peel L&P has also said that there’ll be a network of new footpaths and cycleways that would help to connect the site, with easy access to Metrolink stops at Pomona Island and Cornbrook interchange located at the site too, which would help to promote “sustainable travel”.
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Peel L&P said the 15-year proposals follow the original 2020 masterplan, which was then agreed by Trafford Council.
They also “form the basis” of an outline planning application to be submitted in spring 2022.
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But, the crown jewel of the plans and what is sure to be the most intriguing element for local residents, is that the regeneration would be centred around a 5.2-acre waterfront park and new public access to a mile-long stretch of waterfront.
Developers Peel L&P have unveiled early proposals for an eventual £1 billion redevelopment of Pomona Island in Trafford / Credit: Peel L&P
Ideas for re-using land under the railway arches also form part of the proposals, and include plans to create outdoor sports facilities and play areas.
A range of public consultation events on the plans is expected early next year.
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“Nestled between two famous canals, Manchester Waters has one of the most unique locations out of any our Peel Waters regenerations schemes,” explained James Whittaker, Executive Director for Development at Peel L&P.
“We’ve taken that into careful consideration to develop a green vision for the site which will go to public consultation early next year.
“This vision has nature at its heart by improving public access to the beautiful canals with a new park and open spaces bringing many health and wellbeing benefits to residents, commuters and families.
“The masterplan also supports Trafford Council’s wider housing strategy and its excellent connectivity to Manchester, Trafford and Salford brings many exciting opportunities to create a really special place for a thriving new waterfront community with access to new and improved sustainable travel routes.”
Cllr James Wright – Executive Member for Housing and Regeneration – added: “This exciting masterplan supports a number of our commitments including the building of more homes and developing a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly future for our communities.”
Featured Image – Peel L&P
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Manchester Piccadilly is closing AGAIN for more improvement works this weekend
Emily Sergeant
Manchester Piccadilly is set to close again for more improvement works this weekend.
In case you hadn’t heard, Manchester Piccadilly train station was closed for nine days back in mid-February while a ‘once-in-a-generation upgrade’ was carried out – with very few train services running in or out of the station in the process, and as you’d expect, widespread disruption caused for those travelling around the region.
But thankfully, after many journeys were impacted for those travelling to and from major destinations like Manchester Airport, and on the West Coast Mainline, the station was back up and running at the end of February, with passengers thanked for their patience in the meantime.
Network Rail invested £7.9m into the major upgrade, with the main points of action being to improve tracks, points, and signalling systems on the southern approach to Manchester Piccadilly station.
At the time it was announced that the station had reopened, passengers were alerted to further minor closures in the future, and one of those closures is set to take place this weekend.
🗓️ On 1 & 22 March, we’ll complete follow-up work following our £7.9m track upgrade at Manchester Piccadilly.
🛤️ Morning journeys will be disrupted on those days, with rail replacement buses in operation to keep you moving.
This Sunday (22 March), routine follow-up work will take place to secure the new railway foundation stone through a process called tamping, and this will impact trains until 1pm, so passengers are advised to check online ahead of time if planning to travel.
These upgrades are said to help deliver ‘smoother, more reliable’ journeys for passengers in the future, but during this time, trains from the south and east will not run into Manchester Piccadilly.
All station facilities at Manchester Piccadilly will remain open on the day, including the ticket office, Passenger Assist lounge, toilets, and retail outlets, and Metrolink trams will continue to stop at the station too.
Northern has confirmed that it will continue to run a reduced timetable on services to Liverpool Lime Street, Blackpool North, and Chester.
However, if you are travelling on Sunday morning, you are advised to check your journey before you go and allow a little extra time.
“If you need help, our station teams will be on hand,” Northern assured in a statement.
Featured Image – Network Rail
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Heaton Park announces death of its two donkeys following ‘complex’ health and age-related issues
Emily Sergeant
Heaton Park has made the devastating announcement that two more of its beloved donkeys have sadly passed away.
“It is with great sadness that today we announce the passing of Bonnie and Josh, our beloved donkeys, following advice of a vet and The Donkey Sanctuary who visited our Animal Centre,” Heaton Park & Hall announced on its official social platforms at the end of last week.
The death of Bonnie and Josh comes after two of the park’s other donkeys, Ralph and Lenny, also sadly passed away in June and October of last year, respectively.
Both donkeys were born at Heaton Park, and had been steady companions for each other over the last three decades.
Heaton Park announces death of its two donkeys following ‘complex’ health and age-related issues / Credit: Heaton Park & Hall
Josh managed to reach 29, and Bonnie an incredible 33 years of age before passing, and considering that The Donkey Sanctuary says the average life expectancy for a donkey is just over 30, reaching this age was said to be a ‘significant achievement’ for all who cared for Bonnie and Josh.
However in their later years though, both Bonnie and Josh were living with ‘complex’ health and age-related issues.
Ultimately, these complications were what led to them passing away last week.
“They were such kind and gentle souls, and this loss will be felt deeply by all staff, past and present, alongside our visitors,” Heaton Park’s statement continued.
Heaton Park staff closed out their statement thanking everyone who has ever visited the donkeys over the past couple of decades, and particularly the Donkey Welfare Advisers at The Donkey Sanctuary who have supported them and their donkey herd, especially in recent years.
Emily Sergeant -
2nd December 2021 
