The National Trust have a vision for Castlefield Viaduct and they are working with us to make it happen!
The vision is to transform Castlefield viaduct into a free-to-access park and meeting place for people and nature. Imagine a hidden oasis sitting above this busy city. It will be a space that respects the listed structure, celebrates the nature, beauty and history of the viaduct, and fits in with existing plans for the city. As well as bringing people closer to nature in the city, it will be a stepping stone to other South Manchester green spaces and attractions on foot or bike. The viaduct will take its place in this vibrant area for cultural and heritage, sitting alongside iconic Manchester venues including the Science and Industry Museum and The Factory.
You can read more about the project on the National Trust website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castlefield-viaduct
Calum McGowan, Chair of Castlefield Forum, said:
"To be approached by the National Trust to help galvanise our community around this project is something we have run straight towards and we are thrilled to be working alongside them. From the humble beginnings of the Forum we have often stared up longingly at the old viaduct, thinking "what if?". We have always had it in our sights to bring it back to life, but now there's a very real chance the viaduct will be back in use. And sooner than we had ever expected."
Members of the public can find out more about the proposals for Castlefield viaduct and give their feedback at events taking place on:
• Wednesday 30 June 2021, 1-2pm, hosted online - complete
• Thursday 1 July 2021, 6-7pm, hosted online - complete
• Tuesday 6 July 2021, 7-8pm, hosted online.
Join the meeting online here or dial +44 20 3321 5238 and use the phone conference ID 903 848 011#
You can take a look at the National Trust plans in detail here and see more images of what next year's temporary park on the viaduct could look like. There's also the masterplan showing what the viaduct plans could look like from above. You can view a large font version of the plans here or contact National Trust at castlefieldviaduct@nationaltrust.org.uk or on 07813 393 602 for alternative formats.
Subject to Covid restrictions, we are also planning a drop-in event for people to find out more on 22 July 2021 from 12-3pm at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester.
An online questionnaire will also be available from Wednesday 23 June for members of the public to fill out via the Trust’s Castlefield viaduct webpage.
Email us on info@ourcastlefield.co.uk to join our mailing list get involved
Images ©Twelve Architects and Masterplanners