New plans take root for city gardens

A Manchester city centre public space could be transformed under plans to create a greener, safer and more welcoming destination.

Manchester City Council has shared updated designs for the proposed redevelopment of Piccadilly Gardens, ahead of a full planning application due to be submitted this summer.

The scheme aims to “put the Gardens back in Piccadilly Gardens” through new lawns, trees, planting, seating and colourful horticultural displays.

Plans also include the removal of the existing fountains to create a more flexible space for family-friendly events and activities throughout the year.

A new Welcome Pavilion would be built to support regular programming, while low concrete walls and raised planters near the Queen Victoria statue would be removed to improve the use and appearance of the space.

The existing children’s play area would also be refreshed and expanded, with a larger playground for younger children inspired by recent improvements at Mayfield Park and Ancoats Green.

A pre-planning consultation is now underway and will run until Wednesday, July 15, giving residents and visitors the chance to comment before final plans are submitted.

The council says the physical improvements will be supported by changes to how Piccadilly Gardens is managed and maintained, including a strengthened police presence, CCTV improvements and a new management model.

The scheme will sit alongside wider investment nearby, including the Rylands redevelopment, improvements to One Piccadilly Gardens and planned transport interchange upgrades.

Councillor Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We’re getting on with sorting out Piccadilly Gardens. 

“We all want to see a space which Mancunians can be proud of – a welcoming and attractive environment which people want to spend time in.

“So as well other initiatives which are delivering more police and more CCTV, we’re bringing forward this scheme to transform the public space. 

“That means investment in more flowers, more greenery, a new welcome pavilion, a new and bigger playground and an altogether more inviting Piccadilly Gardens. 

“A bright new chapter is just around the corner.”

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