by Holly Chapman | 08 Oct 26 | Landscape Architecture, News |
Planning permission for the regeneration of Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester has been granted after receiving no objections to the proposals.
The plans will create a more colourful, vibrant, safer and more inviting Piccadilly Gardens.
Key elements include creating more green space including lawn, trees, planting, seating and colourful horticultural displays. Other elements include replacing old fountains with new family-friendly space, introduced raised planters and refresh the existing children’s play area.
The plans will also support a safer space through improved sightlines, better lighting and enhanced CCTV.
Councillor Garry Bridges, leader of Manchester City Council, comments on the plans:
“Securing planning permission means that before this year is out, we can get started properly on work to transform the space and have it finished and ready for the public to use next year. Piccadilly Gardens has huge potential to be a real asset to the city and its people. We know it hasn’t been good enough – but that’s about to change.”
Further planned improvements to the area around Piccadilly Gardens in the coming years will include a multi-million-pound investment by Transport for Greater Manchester to create a new, modern transport interchange.
by Holly Chapman | 21 Sep 26 | Landscape Architecture, Nature & Biodiversity, News, Sustainability
Mayfield Park in Manchester welcomes a new garden featuring 19 trees, seven of which are fit with technology that allows horticultural teams to understand how trees are feeling in the face of climate change.
Developed by Avande, the Tree Talk technology communicate real-time data about the conditions the trees are coping with, while an AI system analyses the information to identify early signs of stress, drought or disease. It allows allows two-way communication between park staff and the trees, enabling questions such as “How are you feeling?” or “What do you need?” to help inform horticultural decisions and identify how urban trees can have a more resilient future.
Henriette Nowne, Mayfield’s development director, says, “trees will play an increasingly important role in helping our cities adapt to a hotter climate, which makes it particularly exciting to be exploring their future here at Mayfield,” adding:
“Mayfield is about transforming a part of Manchester that was once overlooked and largely inaccessible into a vibrant, biodiverse landscape where people and nature can thrive alongside one another. The Intelligent Garden is a natural fit for that vision, bringing together nature, technology and design to explore how our urban landscapes can respond to the challenges of climate change.”
First seen at RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2025, the Avande Intelligent Garden designed by Tom Massey has been relocated to Manchester’s first park for 100 years.
Massey comments:
“Moving the Avanade Intelligent Garden to Mayfield has given us the opportunity to take that idea out of the show garden environment and test it in a real urban setting. The site is challenging, with surrounding hard surfaces exacerbating heat, limited soil depths, pollution from busy roads and all the pressures that city trees face. That makes it the perfect place to explore how sensors, monitoring and AI could help us better understand what trees need and give them a greater chance of surviving and thriving.”
Duncan Paybody, director of landscape at Studio Egret West, the landscape architecture firm behind Mayfield Park, also comments:
“By reusing elements from the original garden alongside locally sourced materials and site-specific planting, we’re creating a space that feels rooted in Mayfield and its industrial heritage, while telling a new story about how nature, design and technology can work together. It’s a garden that has been shaped by its place, and by the conversations and collaborations that have brought it here.”
The garden will be open to the public from 22 September 2026.
by Holly Chapman | 21 Aug 26 | Landscape Architecture, News
A full planning application has been submitted for the transformation of Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester.
Plans include delivering a more colourful, vibrant, safer and more inviting Piccadilly Gardens, following public consultation that took place earlier this year.
The Council and its partners, including Greater Manchester Police and Transport for Greater Manchester, recognise that creating a better Piccadilly Gardens cannot just be about physical improvements but will also require new ways of managing the space to ensure it is maintained as a safe and inviting space.
Key elements of the proposal includes additional green space and planting, a new event space, improving accessibility and refreshing the existing children’s play area.
Councillor Garry Bridges comments on the plans:
“Residents have told us loud and clear what they want from Piccadilly Gardens. They want the area to look better and feel safer and that’s exactly what we’re going to deliver. There has already been significant investment in the area – including extra police and council resources – with even more on the way.
“This application will see a much-improved space: Putting the Gardens back in Piccadilly Gardens, providing a better children’s play area and supporting a more inviting place all round.”
Further planned improvements to the area around Piccadilly Gardens in the coming years will include a multi-million pound investment by Transport for Greater Manchester to create a new, modern transport interchange.
by Bethany Vann | 24 Mar 26 | News
Manchester’s Mayfield Park ushers in a new creative era with the unveiling of a vibrant new work of art.
Created by local artist Callum Simmons — professionally known as Piicasa — the new artwork marks the launch of Create Mayfield, a new creative fund that invites artists from across the district to transform its public spaces.
Coming in at 300-metres, the piece is believed to be the UK’s longest hand-drawn continuous artwork, and is Simmons largest piece to date, he comments:
“I’m truly honoured to be part of and help launch Create Mayfield. Through this installation, I’m interpreting nature and how colours shift through light, shadow and atmosphere.”
Created from hand-drawn grid lines and hand-sprayed colour, the uninterrupted composition — titled Future Loading — stretches continuously across the park’s current edge.
The piece echoes the changing colours of Manchester’s sky and the surrounding landscape, capturing the wonder of the natural world.
It is the first in a rolling programme of creative projects that will take place across the area as it continues to evolve.
Cllr Bev Craig OBE, leader of Manchester City Council, says work is already underway on establishing Manchester’s first office building located within a city centre park, with more projects — including public spaces — to follow.
Applications are now open for the programme’s next commission, inviting creative individuals to transform public-facing spaces across the district, from walls and archways to green spaces, billboards and digital platforms.
Artists interested in future opportunities through Create Mayfield can find out more at createmayfield.com.
by Holly Chapman | 18 Mar 26 | Landscape Architecture, Nature & Biodiversity, News, Sustainability
A new 100% affordable neighbourhood is set to come to Birley Fields in Hulme, Manchester with a focus on green community space and biodiversity.
Following a two-stage bidding process, Glenbrook has been named as the preferred developer to take forward the development programme.
Glenbrook intends to feature new garden space, improved biodiversity and ensure that existing trees will be retained and celebrated. Senior development manager Jamie Sutton comments:
“As a developer, we are acutely aware of the responsibility we hold in delivering such an important scheme, one that provides considered architecture and public realm whilst responding to the needs of the wider community.”
Engagement in early 2025 with local residents and stakeholders looked to create long-term community involvement, which highlighted the importance of improved cycle and pedestrian routes, affordable housing and the need for a low-carbon, net-zero-ready buildings.
Alongside a range of green and public spaces, the development plan includes a total 293 affordable homes.
A clear strategy has been set out for achieving a biodiversity net gain, including a combination of on-site enhancements and ecological assessment.
The scheme is also set to create 71 new full-time jobs, support 90 additional roles and provide a Hulme bursary through Regeneration Brainery to provide an employment pathway into the construction industry for local young people.
by Holly Chapman | 24 Nov 25 | Landscape Architecture, News
Bruntwood and Trafford Council have appointed re-form Landscape Architecture in the next phase of Stretford town centre’s redevelopment.
In the creation of a bold, landscape-led vision, re-form has developed a public realm strategy to guide a greener, more connected people-focused residential quarter.
Key elements of the public realm will include a new neighbourhood park with planting, play, rain gardens and generous lawns, a new public square with seating, planting and social activity as well as a new series of neighbourhood streets designed around walking, cycling and climate resilient planting.
“Each space is designed to stitch into Stretford’s identity and create sustainable, climate-resilient streets and places for residents and visitors,” says the landscape architecture firm.
The Manchester council has now launched a public consultation on plans for the first phase, where the public is encouraged to share feedback.
by Holly Chapman | 28 Oct 25 | Landscape Architecture, News, Sustainability
Oval Real Estate has secured planning approval to develop Manchester’s newest landmark, Albert Bridge House skyscraper scheme.
To be built atop a space next to Albert Bridge and River Irwell that is currently occupied by surface car parks, the trio of blocks are expected to cost around £350m to build.
Revised from a 2023 design, the plans feature two octagonal residential towers rising to 49 and 37 storeys and an 18-storey commercial block.
Featuring more than 5,700m2 of new public realm, planning includes new walking and cycling routes, centred around an urban arboretum with retained mature trees and new planting.
The now scaled-down office building has been designed to meet net zero carbon standards, with a thermally dynamic façade and smart slime systems to align with Manchester’s 2038 carbon-neutral target, explains architect Studio Egret West’s David West.
“It’s about creating a place that feels part of Manchester’s DNA – inviting, resilient and architecturally progressive.”
The studio has reworked the project to respond to changing economic conditions, shifting focus from offices to homes.
by Bethany Vann | 15 Oct 25 | Commercial Landscaping, News
Manchester City Council has announced the investment of around £60m into Gorton Town Centre, which will go towards improving Manchester’s community spaces and the development of new affordable housing.
The investment, which Clarion Housing Group is currently the preferred bidder for, will potentially see the delivery of over 400 new homes.
Pending a planning application, which the council says is due to come forward early next year, the first phase of the redevelopment will include around 70 new mixed size and tenure homes at the site.
An additional 35 independent living homes are also outlined in the proposal, set to be delivered on a long-derelict basketball court on Chapman Street, in closes proximity to the town centre.
This investment follows the completion of the new town square earlier this year – it will look to extend the square through the use of a £300k grant provided by the Governments Local Growth and Place fund.
The extension will see the introduction of more child friendly play features, including new play equipment, and playground games; as well as additional planting and seating in a bid to encourage long term engagement from the surrounding community.
Works are due to start later this year and open to the public in the spring of 2026.
Leader of the Council, Bev Craig comments on the investment:
“This neighbourhood is a place full of potential, and we are already seeing the fruits of this potential come to life. Now it’s about a long-term investment plan that will see Gorton go from strength to strength.”
Gorton Market Hall is also in line for a £1.1m improvement programme, which is also being funded via the Government’s Local Growth and Place grant.
by | 15 Jul 25 | Commercial Landscaping, News
A Grade II listed Victorian viaduct in Castefield, central Manchester, has been awarded £2.75m for a major extension, the National Trust has announced.
The viaducts ‘sky park’ will over double in size, introducing winding paths encouraging visitors to walk slower.
Extending the viaduct from 150 to over 350 metres is expected to increase the number of visitors, allowing passersby to observe the proposed greenery.
Phase 2 of the project will also incorporate the Gold medal-winning WaterAid Garden from last years’ RHS Chelsea Flower Show, designed by Tom Massey and Je Ahn.
The Show Garden, which was built by Landscape Associates, centred around sustainable water management; featuring a planting array of species designed to handle varying amounts of rainfall.
Hilary McGrady, National Trust director-general, says this will work to “bring nature and green space to communities across Manchester.”
Phase 2 of the project – ‘The Vision’ – will also see additional entry and exit points established to improve accessibility of the site.
Future plans could see the viaduct connected to other areas of the city.
The viaduct was originally opened to the public in July 2022, with strong support being shown for the project since.
However, an estimated £500k shortfall in funding is still required to cover the costs of the planting scheme. Supporters and funders are being encouraged to cover this amount and ‘green the gap’.
Council leader Craig Bevan comments:
“The confirmation that funding has been secured for the next stage of this project is welcome news as it will allow for the continued preservation of Manchester’s architectural heritage, as well as expanding a valuable area of calm, green space in the heart of Manchester city centre’.
The planned Phase 2 works are expected to be completed by summer 2026.
by | 09 Jul 25 | News
An underused multistorey car park in Manchester’s Northern Quarter is set to be regenerated into a new sustainable neighbourhood.
The 1.54-acre site on Church Street – described as an ‘eyesore’ by council leader Bev Craig – will be transformed into more than 300 homes, as well as four new public squares and green spaces.
Proposals will ensure that 20% of the houses are affordable homes, with a commitment to sustainability and biodiversity. Further developments could also see complete pedestrianisation of the surrounding streets.
A commercial space will offer affordable units for local, independent businesses.
“We want to bring forward a world-class development that has the potential to completely transform this part of the neighbourhood, together with the newest city centre public squares and green spaces,” says Craig.
The renovation of the unpopular car park is expected to be attentive to the heritage and traditional architecture in the wider area.
A public consultation ahead of a planning application will begin following the conclusion of legal negotiations with Glenbrook. The property developer is set to purchase the site following a competitive process after CBRE was appointed by Manchester City Council to market the site for disposal last year.
by Holly Chapman | 09 Jul 25 | Commercial Landscaping, Landscape Architecture, Nature & Biodiversity, News, Sustainability
The Progressive Living Developments and Picture This project in Stockport, Manchester, has been designed by re-form Landscape Architecture which will regenerate a brownfield site into a sustainable and inclusive residential area.
Fletcher Street, located near to the Stockport city centre, is planned to host 245 new homes across two apartment blocks, including 10% built to wheel-chair adaptable standards.
Atop the eight-storey building, re-form has designed a rooftop community garden with sensory elements, habitat rich planting and kitchen gardens to grow produce.
The scheme, designed by AEW Architects, also sets a high benchmark for energy efficiency and low-carbon living, to align with the Passivhaus Institute low-energy standard.
David Fairclough, director at Progressive Living says the plan approval “represents a major milestone,” since the project has been in works for six years. He adds:
“We’re looking forward to delivering much-needed homes in a sustainable, future-focused way.”
The plans intend to revitalise a key gateway site while supporting Stockport’s wider regeneration strategy.
Phil Hepworth, director at AEW Architects also comments:
“We’re extremely pleased to have reached this milestone in bringing forward innovative, flexible, age-friendly and contextually-appropriate accommodation in the centre of Stockport.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026 with completion by summer 2028.
by Holly Chapman | 04 Jul 25 | Commercial Landscaping, Landscape Architecture, News, Sustainability
Updates to the strategic regeneration framework (SRF) for Manchester’s east village central will be presented to the city’s council next week.
Draft framework creates a vibrant and green neighbourhood in the city centre supporting a welcoming space.
Approximately 40% of the site area could be used to create inclusive green space for community interaction.
The site also has the potential to deliver 1,400 new homes, significant hotel space, 12,000m² workspace and 6,500m² of retail, leisure and event space.
Sustainability will be embedded throughout the development plans, including the improvement of walking and cycling routes with interconnected green space.
First approved in 2022, the SRF guides investment and development in the emerging city centre neighbourhood behind Piccadilly train station.
Bev Craig, leader of the council says the neighbourhood offers “exciting regeneration opportunities,” adding:
“This will be a green neighbourhood with interconnected public spaces that help bring people together.”
The SRF will be considered as part of a report to the council’s executive committee on Tuesday 8 July.
by Holly Chapman | 23 Jun 25 | Commercial Landscaping, Grounds Maintenance, Landscape Architecture, News
Grounds maintenance and landscaping company, Gavin Jones, has been appointed to carry out the soft landscaping package on the Salford Rise project, Greater Manchester.
The project will involve the removal of physical barriers such as security fences, new walking and cycling connections, high-quality public realm, new trees, plantings and public spaces for the community.
Eric Wright Civil Engineering has been named as the principal contractor of the project, working with landscape architect Planit.
The development programme covers 99 hectares of the Salford city centre, intended to provide job opportunities for residents and businesses.
Back in October 2021, Salford City Council secured £13.17m from the governments levelling up fund to deliver Salford Rise.
Construction works are expected to begin after preparatory works are finished, with completion predicted in summer 2026.
by Holly Chapman | 27 May 25 | Landscape Architecture, News
The transformation of two public spaces in Withington, south Manchester, were celebrated at a public two-day festival on the high street over bank holiday weekend.
With a pedestrian-first approach, featuring new planting, seating and public space, Rutherford Place and Copson Street projects are now complete.
Rutherford Place is a new space for small events, with heritage paving, rain gardens, circular seating, new trees and planters. The project was led by landscape architects Allison Walters and Fran Keith from Awscape in collaboration with transport consultants Pell Frischmann for Manchester City Council.
Copson Street has been partly pedestrianised between Wilmslow Road and Patten Street, with a range of paintings, lighting and colourful seating.
Councillor Gavin White, Manchester’s City Council executive member for housing and development comments:
“This investment is about celebrating their village and high street, supporting local businesses to thrive and creating a welcoming and safe district centre that residents can be proud of.”
The Withington high street project is part of a city wide investment programme to improve Manchester’s local areas.
by Holly Chapman | 22 May 25 | News
Manchester’s city streets welcome the return of its flower festival this bank holiday weekend from Friday 23 – Monday 26 May.
A free event, the four day festival will feature floral installations, markets, workshops and a selection of food and drink stalls.
Displays within the floral trail were designed to celebrate the city’s global connections, featuring interpretations of New York, Paris, Mumbai, Amsterdam and Marrakech located across the city centre.
Crafted by local artists, the festival zone will showcase floral installations in windows, shopfronts and public spaces.
Alongside several workshops, the flower marquee will also host a market of selected independent traders, designers and craft makers.
Featured designers include Clocktower Florist, Plant Co-operative CIC and Sostrene Grene who will be hosting separate drop-in events and sessions.
For more information and tickets, visit: visitmanchester.com/the-manchester-flower-festival/
