Castlefield Viaduct expansion approved by council

A hit city centre visitor attraction could double in size but a key stumbling block may prevent the plans.

The National Trust opened Castlefield Viaduct to the public as a ‘park in the sky’ in 2022.

Castlefield Viaduct extension approved

Initially opening for a year-long trial, the park was such a success with visitors the charity opted to keep it open long-term.

At present, only 150m of the grade-II listed viaduct is accessible to the public, with the remaining 200m still left abandoned.

But that could change after Manchester council approved a planning application to extend the park for its full 350m length and add a second entrance by Mancunian Way.

Nichola Jacques, Castlefield Viaduct project manager

Nichola Jacques, Castlefield Viaduct project manager, believes the move will create a park for 50,000 people living within a 20-minute walk of the site.

She said: “We’re delighted that our planning application for the next phase of Castlefield Viaduct has been given the green light by Manchester City Council.

“It’s a positive step towards realising our bigger plans, and those of our partners and supporters. As a charity, we have a purpose to deliver benefits to the nation through nature, history and beauty.

“The viaduct gives us an opportunity to create an accessible green space for the 50,000 residents living within a twenty-minute walk of the area. As well as transforming the viaduct into a green space for people, we recognise the importance of the viaduct to Manchester’s history and the need to protect it.”

Raising £3m

However, a key issue remains with the expansion estimated to cost £3m: Cash.

Ms Jacques continued: “We now need to confirm the funding to make this a possibility for Manchester. Our conversations are continuing with several funders and supporters for phase two and we hope to be able to provide an update in the coming months.”

The Local Democracy Reporting Service previously understood the expansion had already secured £400,000 from National Highways and Trust chiefs were confident they would secure the money.

Their ultimate ambition is to build a 1km-long park along the viaduct from Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink stop to Pomona Island in Trafford, a scheme thought to cost £20m.

You can find out more on their website here