For decades, Manchester’s Gay Village has been an essential safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community who have made this city their home, and should be celebrated for the role it has played over the years, from being a haven and sanctuary from discrimination to a place of protest, to being the focal point of Pride celebrations in Manchester. Now, an action plan has been created which looks to address how the character and spirit of the Gay Village can be maintained and preserved, as well as what improvement works can take place to ensure the needs of the LGBTQ+ community are at the heart of anything which takes place in the Village.
Globally recognised, the Village draws tens of thousands of visitors every year and is truly on the map as one of the most welcoming spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. As part of the Council’s commitment to the Gay Village, a series of listening exercises have taken place so that a better understanding can be gained about what the priorities, desires and needs are for the community who live in, work and visit it, so any improvement can be made.
A range of proposals for improvement works have already been identified to enhance the Gay Village both in the short and long term.
They include:
- The development of a neighbourhood management plan to bring improvements to the physical environment;
- Replacement of damaged trees in Canal Street;
- Conduct a CCTV audit to ensure coverage is being met, and enhance relationships with GMP to ensure resident and business safety;
- Identify new opportunities for street art and murals;
- Develop a social history and heritage trail for the Village.
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council said: “The Gay Village is not only an incredibly vibrant, welcoming and safe space for our LGBTQ+ community but is a living monument to the progress made by those who fought against bigotry and hatred, and those who dedicated their entire lives to building a more tolerant and inclusive society.
“I am immensely proud of the Village and as leader want to make sure that its character and history is preserved for generations to come. Through the launch of this report, we hope to harness the energy of this community alongside other stakeholders and partners in the community, shaping any future development so that it fits the needs of the people who live, work and spend time in the Village.”
We’re looking forward to seeing any improvements to the area to celebrate its history and contribution to Manchester’s culture − we’re sure any work will make it even more fabulous.