A new report has revealed the major transformations planned for Manchester over the next 15 years, with the city's local plan set to be debated by the council's cabinet team this week.
The blueprint, covering the period from 2022 to 2039, outlines an expansion of the city centre, thousands of new homes, and improvements to transport and public services. The document is described as being at an 'advanced and final stage'.
City Centre Expansion and Key Growth Areas
The plan proposes extending the city centre boundary to include the Great Ducie Street area of Strangeways, Ancoats, New Islington, and south towards Manchester Science Park and Manchester Metropolitan University campus. These 'core growth' areas will see significant redevelopment.
Key areas earmarked for major upgrades include Sportcity in east Manchester, Strangeways, and Victoria North, which encompasses Collyhurst and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Housing and Health Developments
The redevelopment of North Manchester General Hospital is a major project, aiming to create a 'modernised hospital and health facilities' alongside new housing, office spaces, and shops.
The report states: 'Manchester is a dynamic city, it continues to see strong population and economic growth. Through a myriad of initiatives seeking to tackle inequalities and ensuring our residents benefit from our success, we have seen new homes across all tenures and new jobs in both traditional and new sectors.'
It adds: 'However, there remains a demand for more housing, including genuinely affordable new homes, and provision for accommodation for supported care and for students attracted to our world class universities.'
Transport and Sustainability Goals
Transport connections are a key focus, with improvements aimed at making the city centre 'more attractive' to spend time in. The plan also emphasises sustainability, noting: 'As we move towards a zero-carbon future, we're recycling more, and our parks have been protected and developed for all.'
The local plan will move to a six-week public consultation later this year, with adoption expected in summer 2027. The report concludes that the updated Local Plan seeks to provide spatial policies addressing 'growth, inclusivity, poverty, health, housing, climate change and transport'.
