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National Trust reveal plans to turn Castlefield viaduct into ‘green oasis’
After over fifty years of the viaduct laying derelict, the National Trust want to bring it back to life
Plans to turn Manchester’s Castlefield viaduct into a city centre park have been revealed today by the National Trust.
The 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 unused ever since.
Highways England have maintained the viaduct with essential repairs, and their Historical Railways Estate team is now working with the National Trust to deliver a groundbreaking transformation.
National Trust
The project, which is still in its early stages, hopes to see the viaduct open as a temporary park this autumn to test ideas and develop the space’s long-term future, and then a more permanent fixture next summer.
According to the National Trust website, ‘the vision is to fully transform the viaduct into a free-to-access park and meeting place for people and nature – a hidden oasis sitting above the busy city. It will be a space that respects the listed structure and celebrates the nature, beauty and history of the viaduct.’
Duncan Laird, head of urban places at the National Trust, said: “We’re delighted to be starting this project to bring new life to the viaduct, establishing its place in this vibrant area of the city.
National Trust
“Our ambition is to give more people the opportunity to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of green, nature-rich havens on this remarkable heritage structure in the city.
“This feels especially important in urban areas like Manchester where there is need for more high-quality green spaces. This project will also help bring people back to the city centre and support local businesses to recover.”
The National Trust will be applying for planning permission for the initial temporary park in autumn this year.
National Trust
There has been no set launch date for the project, but members of the public can find out more about the proposals for the viaduct and give their feedback at events taking place online on Wednesday June 30th at 1pm, Thursday July 1st at 6pm, and Tuesday July 6th at 7pm.
Visit the National Trust website here for more information.