An action plan has been created which looks to address how the character and spirit of the Village can be maintained and preserved, as well as what improvements can be made to ensure the needs of the LGBTQ+ community are at the heart of anything which takes place in the Village.
Manchester’s Gay Village has been an essential safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community who have made this city their home say the council and it should be celebrated for the role it has played over the years, from being a haven and sanctuary from discrimination to a place of protest, to being the focal point of Pride celebrations in Manchester.
The review will see development of a neighbourhood management plan to bring improvements to the physical environment including the replacement of damaged trees in Canal Street
The council will conduct a CCTV audit to ensure coverage is being met, and enhance relationships with GMP to ensure resident and business safety and will identify
new opportunities for street art and murals
There will also be a social history and heritage trail for the Village
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council said: “The Gay Village is not only an incredibly vibrant, welcoming and safe space for our LGBTQ+ community but is a living monument to the progress made by those who fought against bigotry and hatred, and those who dedicated their entire lives to building a more tolerant and inclusive society.
“I am immensely proud of the Village and as leader want to make sure that its character and history is preserved for generations to come. Through the launch of this report, we hope to harness the energy of this community alongside other stakeholders and partners in the community, shaping any future development so that it fits the needs of the people who live, work and spend time in the Village.”
