Plans to expand Castlefield Viaduct’s elevated park have taken a major step forward after the National Trust confirmed it has secured over £2.75m in funding towards its ambitious Phase 2 extension.
The funding includes £2.4m from National Highways’ Historical Railways Estate Team, £100k each from Manchester City Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and a £150k grant from the Railway Heritage Trust. Together, the contributions make up over three-quarters of the funding required for the next stage of the scheme, which aims to transform the remaining half of the viaduct into a nature-rich greenway.
Opened as a pilot in 2022, the Castlefield Viaduct has quickly become one of Manchester’s most distinctive public spaces, inviting visitors to experience gardens and walkways set high above the city. The Phase 2 plans will extend the park from 150 metres to over 350 metres, unlocking the overgrown western section beyond its current glass barrier.
Structural work will include new winding paths designed to encourage slower movement and moments of pause, nature-friendly planting, and the permanent installation of the WaterAid Garden – a gold medal winner at the 2024 RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
The project will also see the viaduct become a through-route for the first time, with a new entrance and lift added at the west side near Mancunian Way to improve accessibility.
Hilary McGrady, Director-General of the National Trust, said: “This funding is brilliant news for Castlefield – a hugely inspiring project to bring nature and green space to communities across Manchester. Its popularity over the past few years demonstrates how much residents and visitors value access to nature in this unique industrial heritage setting.”
Calum McGowan, Chair of Castlefield Forum, added: “We are proud of our role in helping to inspire and shape these plans and can’t wait to see the extension of this unique elevated park become a permanent reality.”
The National Trust is now seeking to raise the final £500,000 needed to fund the planting and landscape elements. The aim is to create an ‘urban oasis’ with trees, seating areas and gardens for people and wildlife to enjoy.
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The transformation of the Castlefield Viaduct has been an incredible example of urban regeneration… expanding a valuable area of calm, green space in the heart of Manchester city centre.”
Construction work is expected to begin in autumn 2025, with the new section of the viaduct opening to the public in summer 2026.
Castlefield Viaduct is currently open Wednesday to Sunday and can be visited without booking.
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