The Castlefield Viaduct in Manchester has revitalised an unused Victorian era railway viaduct, and is already a firm favourite with locals, people from across Greater Manchester and tourists visiting the city since it opened in summer 2022. Now, potential plans have been revealed for an extension of Castlefield Viaduct into a functional bridge, connecting the city centre with Pomona Island.
The National Trust, which carried out the original work to transform the viaduct, has set out a vision, stating: “Castlefield Viaduct will become a destination in its own right. Connecting people and places and become a springboard to building a lasting legacy for nature in the heart of Manchester.
“Keeping the character and DNA of the viaduct, whilst making the most of what it can offer. It will create a vibrant people-focused experience that leaves us all with a smile on our face, a sense of pride, joy and wellbeing.”
The National Trust has also set out aims for the extension vision for Castlefield Viaduct, including respecting the landmark – treasure what we have, enhance it through thoughtful design and maximise its impact to do good – nurture nature in an urban environment, and more than A-B – creating the right conditions where you can wander, run, cycle or walk the dog.
What’s more, the public is able to have their say in the future of Castlefield Viaduct with a survey from The National Trust, allowing the organisation to collect inspiration and opinions on similar green spaces that people love, the most popular plants and flowers to adorn the space, and what makes us feel safe in a public space. You can find the survey here.
So from the industrial history of Castlefield, to the independent businesses and proximity to Salford Quays of Pomona Island, we might hopefully be able to get around that little bit easier via Castlefield Viaduct some time soon.
Earlier this year, Castlefield Viaduct announced that visitors will be able to enjoy Manchester’s sky park until autumn 2024 after being granted an extension by Manchester City Council. You can book tickets free here to experience the current Castlefield Viaduct, with views of the old and new of Manchester, and the lovely sky park put together by The National Trust.