The Castlefield Viaduct in Manchester is a majestic piece of design. Crafted from solid steel, the structure features 56 magnificent arches and 330 meters of sturdy Victorian engineering. Close to Mancunian institutions like HOME and the Museum of Science and Industry, this is one of the city’s most historic – and oddly underrated – sites.
The old railway line has been abandoned for more than half a century, but it will soon be put back into public use. Plans are underway to turn it into a “sky park”, much like New York’s High Line or Parisof the Planted Promenade.
The National Trust is behind the initiative and wants the park to be open to the public and completely free. Over time, it is hoped that the viaduct will be transformed into a relaxing, flower-filled green space, and will provide new walking and cycling access to several areas of South Manchester. Here are some snazzy artist impressions:
The viaduct will include plenty of information designed to educate visitors about both its own history and the wildlife of the area. It will be the first time it has been open to the public since the Grade II listed site was officially closed in 1969.
In other words, Mancunians have plenty to be excited about over the next few months. The new “sky park” is set to open in a temporary form in July, with the idea that this version will test several different ideas for what the viaduct could become permanently.
It is expected that access to the viaduct will be free but paid. keep an eye on National Trust project page for more details and future developments.
Have you seen that there is an epic rooftop bar at the top of Dublin‘s Guinness Storehouse?
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