The expansion plans for the ‘Sky Park’ that has transformed the previously derelict Castlefield Viaduct have been revealed.
Phase two of the development of the Grade II-listed Victorian viaduct, which extends over 350 metres from the end of Deansgate towards Cornbrook, are now available for the public to see online.
Among the plans for the extension of the already completed section of the viaduct, which opened to the public in 2022 by the National Trust, will be the installation of new paths and gardens.
One section will feature the charity WaterAid’s gold medal-winning garden from this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which would be relocated to the viaduct, which features a rainwater harvesting pavilion.
There will also be second entry point to the viaduct installed, to the west side, accessed via a stairway and lift.
The National Trust has obtained £400,000 from National Highways’ Users and Communities Designated Funds programme to support the design and feasibility of Phase 2 of the project, and will be looking for further investment to complete the extension.
Nichola Jacques, Castlefield Viaduct Project Manager at the National Trust, said: “This planning application is a major step towards the National Trust and our partners finding a future for Castlefield Viaduct.
“We’ve been blown away by the passion, creativity and local pride expressed towards the viaduct since it opened three years ago. It’s clear that Manchester wants the viaduct to remain open and reach its full potential to bring nature to more people in this urban setting, share its story in the city’s history, and connect other parts of the city through active travel routes.
“This journey can begin by opening access to the full deck of the viaduct and providing a canvas for future ideas and opportunities which we hope will attract investment from funders and partners.”
Matt Cartwright, founding director of Twelve Architects, who have been working on the project since 2021, added: “It has been a huge privilege to watch the Castlefield Viaduct project progress, and to now be working on the second phase with the National Trust, Arup, BDP Landscape and the local community.
“This project is very close to our hearts, and we are so proud of what we have achieved as a team. Together, we continue to unlock the potential of the Viaduct, to connect the people of Manchester with nature, heritage and community.”
You can view the plans and planning application here…
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