The official consultation into the future of the former Central Retail Park is now open.

Along with councillors in Ancoats & Beswick, Piccadilly Labour opposed the planning permission for a car park on the former Central Retail Park. We have always been of the view this space could deliver so much more for Manchester.

With this in mind we have continued to support the development of a plan which delivers an environmentally sound, vibrant and active new piece of our city.

The site must reflect our goals of green space and carbon-neutral growth as a responsible city, and increase permeability across Great Ancoats Street so residents on both sides can benefit from shared amenities. The envisioned square would add another hard landscaped space to our city, whereas a purpose built green space would provide Ancoats with the much needed social infrastructure for residents from across the city to enjoy. We are calling on the Council to include a purpose built green space at this site.

We support a residential element to the site and we’re calling for this to be done in a way which contributes to our genuinely affordable and accessible housing goals as a city.

We also support the plans to bring high-end jobs and services to the site, building on our shared industrial heritage. We are seeking a commitment from the Council to promote local hiring practices by businesses on the site to ensure that education, training and hiring opportunities are accessible to all.

Tell us what you think! Do you think the Council should be more ambitious? Fill in the quick questionnaire below!