Castlefield’s Victorian viaduct to be transformed into £1.8m ‘urban sky park’ by summer

Plans to transform the Castlefield Viaduct into an urban sky park are one step closer to reality after being unveiled by the National Trust today. 

Built in 1892, the historic Grade II listed structure used to be used to carry heavy rail traffic in and out of Manchester Central, but it closed down in 1969 and has been sat derelict and unused ever since.

But it is soon set for a new injection of life; due to open in July, the National Trust is aiming to turn the viaduct into a temporary ‘park in the sky’ and create an outdoor meeting place to benefit both Mancunians and nature, all while celebrating the industrial heritage of Castlefield. 

The pilot phase of the project, which has cost £1.8 million of public donations, will see a green space stretching half way across the elevation of the viaduct, with trees, flowers and shrubs planted to attract wildlife to the once industrial structure.

National Trust

National Trust

A section of the viaduct will be left untouched to demonstrate how nature has reclaimed the space since the site was closed, and will boast several new features including installations, a community space to hold events and other native planting.

The Science and Industry Museum are also planning their own garden with heritage plants, trees and flowers that will be seen from the viaduct. They will also host themed special talks and events for all ages across the summer and autumn.

Read More: National Trust reveal plans to turn Castlefield viaduct into ‘green oasis’

The park will be completely free to enter, and opinions and feedback from visitors will be welcomed in order to determine its long term plans.

Hilary McGrady, Director-General of the National Trust said: “This is a hugely significant moment in our plans for creating a unique green space to benefit the surrounding community and to bring more nature to people’s doorsteps. The project is also a fantastic way to celebrate our industrial heritage, bringing it to life for the 21st Century.

National Trust

National Trust

“The pandemic showed us the importance of our local parks and gardens, but it also highlighted significant inequalities in access to green space in urban areas like Manchester.

“By working with others, we aim to increase access to parks and green spaces in, around, and near urban areas, so eventually everyone is in easy reach of quiet places for reflection with wide open skies.

“We hope that ‘greening’ the viaduct will become a stepping-stone to other Manchester green spaces and nearby attractions, adding to the city’s vibrant, cultural offer.”

The first phase of the project is set to open in July, with visitors being limited to 100 people a day. Entry onto the structure will be free, but there will be a booking system in place to help manage numbers. As part of the experience, visitors will be able to join a guided walk on the viaduct.

For more information, visit the National Trust website.