First stage of Piccadilly Gardens redevelopment revealed

Manchester City Council have revealed plans to rejuvenate Piccadilly Gardens, with the aim of making it an "attractive world-class space." This project is the first in a two-step process to transform the area, with initial work set to begin after the Christmas Markets close on 22 December as no planning permission is immediately required. This update comes 2 years after the plans were originally announced.

This first step is largely composed of physical changes, including the removal of the fountains and concrete wall, as well as the creation of a play area for children, and the planting of trees and flowers. In addition, there will be a new police team established for the area, with further information set to be announced by Greater Manchester Police.

Acknowledging the perception of the area as unsafe and forgotten, Council Leader Bev Craig said "We know there are aspects of Piccadilly Garden that no longer work...and we're determined to ensure the space looks and feels better." Craig also described the project as a "Multiagency blueprint to address issues with crime and anti-social behaviour, and invest in other sustainable improvements."

Credit: LDA Design

Landscape architecture company, LDA Design, are working with Manchester City Council as part of the redevelopment, and have created conceptual images for the project.  Their website states they "believe in the brilliance of the collective," and other similar recent projects by the company include Castle Park in Bristol, St Botoloph's Quarter in Colchester, and Station Quarter in Peterborough. Speaking about Piccadilly Gardens, LDA Director John Simpson said their intentions were "to create a safer, more welcoming, playful, and greener space."

Accompanying the environmental transformation of the area, it has also been announced that a new transport interchange will be created, replacing the current system drawn up in the 1990s. While the total cost of the project is yet to be confirmed, £25 million was set aside in 2023, and the cost of the interchange is expected to come from the £2.5 billion Transport for Greater Manchester received from the government in June.