Work on the city centre redesign is set to begin this autumn, with more greenery, a larger playground and new events space planned...
Manchester City Council’s plans to transform Piccadilly Gardens have been approved, clearing the way for the main construction work to begin in November.
The full planning application received no objections, meaning council officers were able to approve the scheme without it going before the Planning Committee. Preparatory work is already underway ahead of the main phase starting later this autumn.
The redevelopment will introduce more lawn, trees, planting, seating and horticultural displays across the Gardens, alongside changes intended to open up the space and improve visibility.
The existing fountains will be removed and replaced by a flexible area designed to host family-friendly events and seasonal activities throughout the year.
Low concrete walls and raised planters around the edge of the Gardens, close to the Queen Victoria statue, will also be removed, while the setting around the statue itself will be opened up.
A new, larger children’s playground is planned for younger visitors, taking inspiration from recently completed play areas at Mayfield Park and Ancoats Green. Earlier plans for the scheme also outlined improved lighting, CCTV and sightlines as part of wider efforts to address safety and antisocial behaviour in the area.
Alongside the physical redevelopment, the council says it is working with partners on a new management model for Piccadilly Gardens, following measures including an increased police presence and greater CCTV coverage.
The project forms part of wider changes around Piccadilly, with the redevelopment of the former Debenhams building into Rylands and approved refurbishment plans for One Piccadilly Gardens also progressing nearby. Transport for Greater Manchester is separately planning a multi-million-pound overhaul of the Piccadilly Gardens transport interchange.
Councillor Garry Bridges, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We’re getting on with the task of improving Piccadilly Gardens. It’s a big priority for me.
“Securing planning permission means that before this year is out, we can get started properly on work to transform the space and have it finished and ready for the public to use next year.
“Piccadilly Gardens has huge potential to be a real asset to the city and its people. We know it hasn’t been good enough – but that’s about to change.”
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