Manchester City Council approved Piccadilly Gardens’ redesign, with work due to start in November. Plans include a central lawn, more trees, a larger playground, extra CCTV and improved lighting. Garry Bridges said the gardens could be ready next year.
Developed with Greater Manchester Police and Transport for Greater Manchester, the redesign aims to address anti-social behaviour and make the gardens welcoming. A pedestrian route will link Oldham Street in the Northern Quarter to the transport interchange; low concrete walls and the fountains described as “unreliable” will be removed. A management plan involving the council, both agencies, businesses and residents is intended to keep the gardens safe and maintained. The Local Democracy Reporting Service said officers approved the plans after no public objections were received; an earlier consultation drew hundreds of responses, some raising concerns about anti-social and criminal behaviour.
