The Glade of Light memorial, designed to honour the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack, has been awarded the coveted Civic Trust Award for its contemporary design and emotionally powerful impact.
The serene and beautiful space at the heart of the city has been awarded the Community Impact & Engagement Special Award.
Nestled within a grove of Oak, Birch, Hawthorn, and Pine trees, this circle was built to symbolise the infinite and the eternal.
Each block is adorned with the names of the 22 victims inlaid in bronze, with memory capsules beneath them containing private messages, mementos, and special memories left by the bereaved families.
Moreover, this place of inclusivity was designed with the input of representatives of the bereaved families, survivors, local stakeholders, and a wider access working group.
The Glade of Light is more than just a memorial, it is a peaceful oasis in the midst of a bustling city.
Its landscaping and planting reflect the beauty of the nearby Peak District Heathlands, with the ever-changing orchestration of plants including grasses, heathers, bulbs, and perennials, creating a soft and responsive reflection of the existing public realm and surrounding environment.
The memorial has become an essential part of Manchester’s heart, offering a space for people to come together to grieve, heal, and remember.
It provides a peaceful and green setting within the busy city, offering people an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
It has become a place for people to find a quiet moment, connect with nature, and benefit from its restorative powers.
The Glade of Light memorial has become a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Manchester.
It is a powerful reminder of the city’s ability to come together and heal after tragedy.
The Civic Trust Award is a recognition of the memorial’s exceptional design, emotional and cultural significance, and contribution to the local community.
This testament to the power of design and landscape architecture to create meaningful spaces that have a positive impact on people’s lives is a space of beauty, peace, and hope, providing a place for people to reflect on the lives lost and the impact of the tragedy on the community.
The Glade of Light has become a lasting legacy to those who were lost, and a reminder to all of us of the power of love, community, and resilience.