Plans to transform Castlefield viaduct into park above the city
The vision is to transform Castlefield viaduct into a free-to-access park and meeting place for people and nature.
Last updated 22nd Jun 2021
Plans are underway to transform the Grade II listed Castlefield viaduct back into use, transforming it into a green oasis created by and for the benefit of local people.
The vision is to transform Castlefield viaduct into a free-to-access park and meeting place for people and nature, like "a hidden oasis sitting above the busy city".
The National Trust describe it as a space that respects the listed structure, celebrates the nature, beauty and history of the viaduct, and fits in with existing plans for the city.
It's hoped to be a stepping stone to other South Manchester green spaces and attractions on foot or bike. The viaduct will take its place in the vibrant area for cultural and heritage, sitting alongside iconic Manchester venues including the Science and Industry Museum and The Factory.
Next steps
The current plan is to open the viaduct as soon as next summer as a temporary park to test ideas and get some feedback.
At the moment the National Trust are assessing the safety and condition of the viaduct to understand what its future could look like.
They're working with the local community to get their thoughts, before applying for planning permission.
People who live close to the viaduct are being asked to join online events taking place on:
30 June 2021, 1-2pm
1 July 2021, 6-7pm
6 July 2021, 7-8pm
Subject to Covid restrictions, a drop-in event for people to find out more is also being planned on 22 July 2021 from 12-3pm at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester.
History of the vidaduct
This 330m long viaduct sits in the oldest part of the city – Castlefield. It’s an area steeped in rich history. Castlefield is the site of Manchester’s Roman origins, the world’s first passenger railway, and was the terminus for the Bridgewater Canal, the world’s first industrial canal.
Built in 1892 and constructed by Heenan and Froude, the engineers who worked on the iconic Blackpool Tower, the viaduct was used to carry heavy rail traffic in and out of Manchester Central railway station (now the Manchester Central Convention Complex). It stayed in use until 1969 when Central Station closed.
As the city of Manchester has continued to grow, the viaduct has stood unused and unchanged with only the essential repairs and maintenance carried out.