Consultation begins on plans to make Manchester area more sustainable

Manchester City Council has launched a public consultation around plans to enhance public space and sustainability in Ancoats.

The Council’s public realm strategy for this area will form part of the ongoing regeneration work in Ancoats.

The consultation will allow local people and businesses to learn about and give feedback on proposals to improve public space in the Poland Street area, bound by Oldham Road, Bengal Street, the Rochdale Canal and Butler Street.

The area is currently characterised by poor access and street layouts, and inadequate walking and cycling routes.

The City Council’s priorities for the strategy include guiding how around 1500 further homes can be provided in a way that enhances the neighbourhood character, delivers on quality of life, sustainability, and active travel priorities, and integrates the Poland Street neighbourhood into the wider area.

Once approved, the strategy will inform the design of future developments in this area, and ensure reduced vehicle movements, access to sustainable transport choices and the creation of high-quality green spaces and streets.

Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: ‘So far the redevelopment of Ancoats & New Islington has been a regeneration success story, becoming a world-renowned neighbourhood.

‘We are taking a very considered approach to the next phase of development, which will be underpinned by high quality green space and ambitious place making to create a really attractive place to live and play. And this strategy allows us to take a very joined up approach to new homes and public space in a way that helps create inclusive and sustainable communities.

‘This will be different to the harder street scenes in other parts of the area with Ancoats Green as the heart of the community, fewer cars and more opportunities for active walking and cycling – developing a neighbourhood that will support our journey to zero carbon.’

Photo by James Genchi