Castlefield Viaduct, Manchester

Manchester, North West

The Castlefield Viaduct pilot scheme exemplifies how thoughtful design can transform a historic structure into a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable urban asset. By repurposing the Grade II-listed viaduct as a temporary urban park, the project seamlessly integrates heritage preservation with contemporary needs, offering a green oasis in the heart of Manchester. This innovative initiative addresses the pressing demand for accessible greenspace while fostering community engagement and ecological sustainability. The scheme celebrates the industrial heritage of the viaduct while introducing modern interventions that harmonise with its character. The materials, chosen for their durability and aesthetic compatibility, create a cohesive framework for community-led creativity. These additions are legible as new yet respectful of the structure’s history, ensuring that the viaduct retains its identity while being adapted for contemporary use. The spatial layout, with its varied landscape character areas, adds layers of richness and narrative, enhancing the user experience and creating opportunities for diverse activities. The project demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. The design is peat-free and supports a circular economy by ensuring that all elements are reusable. Rainwater collection for irrigation, composting green waste, and planting that fosters wildlife habitats, including bat-friendly flora, reflect a holistic approach to biodiversity and resource management. The low-impact lighting strategy, designed to minimise light pollution, supports nocturnal wildlife while offering a serene atmosphere for visitors. The viaduct serves as a pedestrian-friendly link connecting Manchester’s city centre with neighbouring areas, enhancing mobility and safety. Free access ensures that the park remains an equitable public space, while the collaborative approach—engaging local stakeholders, residents, and volunteers—ensures that the project reflects and responds to community needs. This people-powered ethos fosters a sense of ownership and pride among users. The pilot scheme’s benefits to the community are profound. It reactivates a long-neglected structure, transforming it into a tranquil retreat that enhances mental well-being and offers respite from urban life. By integrating storytelling into the design, the viaduct becomes a living canvas celebrating Manchester’s rich history and cultural diversity. As a test project, its popularity and success validate the need for further phases, promising to enhance Manchester’s pedestrian network and create a lasting legacy of green infrastructure.

Judges’ Comments:

“The Castlefield Viaduct pilot scheme is a beacon of sustainable urban regeneration, offering a blueprint for adaptive reuse that prioritises people, nature, and heritage.”