Next steps for Castlefield Viaduct

Published:: 28 May 2024

A colourful illustration of people next to a narrow boat with the viaduct behind them — The vision for Castlefield Viaduct | © Smiling Wolf

In Autumn 2023, we asked the local community to help us imagine a future for Castlefield Viaduct. Now we would like to share the designs which have been developed with those ideas and update you on what’s next for the viaduct. Whether you've visited the viaduct or not, this is your chance to take a look at the future of this iconic Mancunian landmark. Please note: We’ve made the decision to cancel the previously advertised events for now while we finalise the design options for phase 2. We’ll be planning in new events once we’ve narrowed down the options and are able to share these with the public.

Over the last 2 years, we've been working with partners in Manchester to transform the disused Castlefield Viaduct into a green space for people and nature. Since opening in July 2022 the viaduct has welcomed over 100,000 visitors.

From the beginning we have asked visitors and the community to imagine what the future of the Viaduct could look like. A few months ago we commissioned BDP architects, Smiling Wolf, Deco Publique and Mott MacDonald to work with the local community to develop a future vision for the site. We listened to what the local community wanted and we’re now excited to share the designs which have been developed. Watch the fly-through video here of what the future Viaduct could look like and view our vision document here.

In other exciting news, we're taking the next step towards delivering the vision - Phase Two. We're hoping to design and submit for planning this year with public opening from 2025. We continue to seek donations and investment to keep the viaduct open to the public.

If you would like to know more about our work at Castlefield Viaduct and the vision please visit the Our Work page.

Find out what's next for Castlefield Viaduct

There will be opportunities for you to see the plans, experience a virtual walkthrough of the ‘vision’ for the viaduct, hear about the next steps for the project and share your views. Check back soon to find out more and book.

Please note: We’ve made the decision to cancel the previously advertised events for now while we finalise the design options for phase 2. We’ll be planning in new events once we’ve narrowed down the options and are able to share these with the public.