Locals to consider plans for cities major retail park
Manchester residents are set to review plans for a retail park which could soon be home to new offices, retail space and a new park if plans are approved.
A six-week consultation on plans to revitalise Manchester’s former Central Retail Park has begun, allowing residents and local businesses to give their views on how the space could be used best.
The site previously housed a retail complex, which held brands such as Toys R Us and Argos, and now a new, sustainable office district is set to take its place.
Around 8,000 workers could use the proposed new workspaces, as Manchester City Council aims to keep up with the growing demand for offices.
Additionally, a green corridor linking to the new eco-park Cotton Fields to boost the green credentials of the commercial district.
It’s thought the area could provide a public space with terraced lawns, informal seating and plants, as well as improved links for pedestrians and cyclists, as the area is close to main transport routes.
New shops and cafes will also be established at the former retail park, catering to residents, visitors and new employees in the area.
Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: ‘We have an exciting opportunity in the former retail site to bring the long-term regeneration story of New Islington to a close, creating a flagship low carbon, green development that has the potential to create thousands of jobs.
‘At the heart of our proposals is a green public space that will create a link between Great Ancoats and New Islington Marina for the first time, helping to celebrate Cotton Field Park behind.
‘We want this to be a truly valuable investment to Manchester’s regeneration programme and a credit to the city centre. As such, we would encourage feedback on our proposals and invite as many people as possible to take part in the consultation.’
The regeneration scheme could also provide the Government Property Agency (GPA) with government offices. This would support government levelling up aims to establish more civil servants outside of London.
Two drop-in sessions will be open to residents, local businesses and stakeholder organisatons to voice their views on Tuesday January 17th. These will take place from 12pm – 2:30pm and 5pm – 7pm. The consultation will close on February 14th.
Photo by Orry Verducci