A new public square is now formally open, providing a new heart and focal point for the Gorton neighbourhood, while supporting the ongoing success of the existing Gorton Market.
The new square is located off Garratt Way between the market and Tesco superstore, which has seen the conversion of part of the underused car park into a people-first space for the whole community.
The square has been designed following consultation with local people and community groups to create a splash of colour, a multi-functional space with new trees and plants, plenty of seats and space to host events and activities for children. Aa relaxing space for local people and visitors to eat and spend time.
Key features include:
- A flexible space that can host events and pop-up gatherings
- A raised market terrace area with seating for people to relax and an upgraded, outdoor trading space for Gorton Market
- A new nature area with significant planting to screen the square from Garratt Way and introduce biodiversity
- Imaginative interactive play features for young people
- Light projections to animate the space
- Improved and safer walking and cycling routes to and through the local area
- An altered road layout from Garratt Way, to slow traffic, reduce movement conflicts, but maintain access.
This new Square will enhance the existing market offer, helping to increase footfall and create a destination space. There will be further investment in the Square later this year
The project was funded by the UK Government. The square was built by Warden Construction.
This investment is part of the wider ambition for Gorton, set out in the Development Framework for the neighbourhood, and complements other investment in the local area, including the opening of the Gorton Hub community space in 2022.
The longer-term regeneration proposals for this part of Gorton include hundreds of new mixed tenure homes housing, including significant affordable homes, that will be built on Council-owned land overlooking the new square.
Find out more about the Council’s investment in the city’s high streets and district centres
Leader of the Council Bev Craig said:
“We are investing in our local communities across the city because we know how important Manchester’s high streets are to the people they serve. This isn’t just about accessing services easily – like health care and shops – this is also about creating pride in our local spaces and neighbourhoods our residents want to live in.
“We know that Manchester people want to live in welcoming, clean and green communities that support businesses, create jobs and provide opportunities for new affordable housing.
“This is what we’re doing in Gorton, Moston Lane, Withington high street and Wythenshawe town centre – and we have our sights set on other district centres, such as Newton Heath in north Manchester, for future investment that will continue our ongoing commitment to investing in the things our local communities want and need.”
Councillor Gavin White, Executive Member for Housing and Development said:
“This is an exciting milestone for Gorton and the next element of the investment plan, alongside the Gorton Hub, that is helping to create a real destination in this district centre.
“The new public space will host community events, support local businesses including Gorton Market, and create a new heart for the neighbourhood and community – ultimately supporting a strong local economy.
“New housing – including significant affordable housing – is also a key part of the regeneration plan for Gorton using Council-owned land close to the new town square, building the homes that the people of east Manchester need to thrive.”
Ian Williams, Managing Director at Warden Construction, added:
“Warden Construction is incredibly proud to have played a key role in bringing this vibrant new public square to life for the people of Gorton. Seeing this underused space transformed into a welcoming heart for the community, one that complements the existing market and offers opportunities for connection and enjoyment for all ages, is truly rewarding. We believe this thoughtfully designed square will be a cornerstone of Gorton’s ongoing regeneration, and we look forward to seeing it thrive.”
