Transformational plans set to be approved for ‘major’ new Manchester city centre park

‘Transformational’ plans to regenerate an underused Manchester city centre site are set to be approved next week.

Following ‘overwhelming’ public support for proposals set out in a public consultation earlier this year – where more than 90% of respondents supported the key principles – Manchester City Council says its executive is expected approve an ambitious vision for the Water Street neighbourhood at a meeting next week (Weds 8 July).

The Water Street Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) is set to create a city centre district developed around a new urban park. 

The SRF is described as being a ‘high-level blueprint’ for future investment that will guide development through the planning process.

The plans are comprised of a new landscape-led neighbourhood that combines homes – including 20% of them being ‘affordable’ – improved public spaces, enhanced walking and cycling connections, and ‘significant’ new green infrastructure centred around the River Medlock. 

Sustainability was highlighted as an area of importance to local residents in the consultation, and to meet these demands, the plans include increased biodiversity, sustainable drainage features, and a largely car-free neighbourhood to support Manchester’s zero-carbon ambitions, as well as the new urban park being at the heart of it all.

The new neighbourhood will also offer plenty of new jobs, skills, and investment opportunities. 

“The wider Water Street area has seen major regeneration in recent years with world-class investment at St John’s and Aviva Studios on its doorstep, alongside impressive residential developments,” explained Cllr Gavin White, who is Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and regeneration.

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“This renewed regeneration framework will help guide investment to bring this area up to the same ambitious level with new housing, including affordable housing to create an inclusive new neighbourhood, complemented by a brand-new city centre urban park.”

Featured Image – Manchester City Council (Supplied)