Manchester City Council has published the final draft of its local plan, outlining where up to 60,000 new homes could be built across the city by 2039. The plan, which also addresses job creation and business space, is now at the publication stage before an independent inspector reviews it. The council expects the plan to be adopted in summer 2027.
Core growth area to absorb most development
Most of the development is concentrated in a 'core growth area', which accounts for more than 42,000 new homes and 1.4 million square metres of office space. This area includes central Manchester, where the city centre boundary could expand, as well as Holt Town near Ancoats and New Islington, Central Park near Harpurhey and Newton Heath, Sportcity in east Manchester, and part of the Victoria North project towards Collyhurst.
The core growth area is described as the 'economic hub' of Greater Manchester, located at the heart of transport connections across the north of England. Other growth locations focus on areas such as Strangeways, around North Manchester General Hospital, Wythenshawe, and Manchester Airport.
Zero-carbon target and housing strategy
The council says the growth will help Manchester become a 'zero-carbon city' by 2038. The local plan complements the city's housing strategy, which aims to deliver at least 36,000 new homes by 2032, including 10,000 social, council, and genuinely affordable homes.
Councillor Gavin White, lead for housing and regeneration, said: "It's important that future development plays its part well in making sure Manchester remains a great place to live, with great homes that our residents can afford in attractive neighbourhoods that they want to live in with quality green spaces nearby."
Final consultation launched
A public consultation on the updated draft local plan runs until September 28. The council encourages residents to comment, as this is the final chance before the plan is submitted to the inspector. Last year, thousands of responses helped guide the review.
White added: "This is the final chance for Manchester people to comment on the updated draft local plan, and we'd encourage as many people as possible to take part to play their part in guiding development in our city."
