A new masterplan that will help guide future development in the heart of Gorton – including new shops, public realm and affordable housing – is set to be agreed at a meeting of the Council’s executive
A public consultation over the Christmas period gained valuable feedback from local people, attracting more than 260 responses – alongside two in-person drop-in events – with the majority of feedback providing very positive comments about future investment in the neighbourhood say Manchester Council
Plans include the creation of a more attractive environment that is more comfortable for local people and visitors to spend time in and extending the time residents and visitors spend within the local area beyond the tradition weekday 9am-5pm – including night time activities
The plan looks to expand the diversity of the shops in the area through a wider commercial offer,and walking and cycling routes to and through the local area
There will be a new heart of the community, focusing upon Garratt Way; and the new town square as well as a new quality centre public space within the centre through new planting schemes and landscaping
There will also be an Opportunity to deliver 400 new homes on brownfield land with a mixed tenure approach that matches local housing demand – including affordable housing
Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said:
“The recent consultation has given us some real impetus to push forward with further investment in the Gorton District Centre – and it’s been brilliant to receive the positive feedback from local people that the high-level proposals are welcomed.
“There are some key areas from the responses that we will now ensure are key principles for development, including new affordable housing, a new public square and more shops – but also to assure a future for the Gymnastics centre, which has had a home in the local area for some time.
“Gaining insight and support of local people is always invaluable for the success of any development – but when it comes to a local district that is widely used and popular with local people, it becomes even more vital. So I’d like to thank everyone who took part and we look forward to a bright future in Gorton.”
