A new Withington!
Residents of Withington Village can now have their say on radical ambitions to rejuvenate the area over the next two decades.
A reshaped public square, car-free streets, restored shop fronts, more street art and better cycle routes are proposed as part of a draft development strategy.
The public consultation on the Withington Village framework launched this week and the public can share their views online until January 31, 2021.
Manchester council wants the village to become a ‘liveable, loveable place that meets all the needs of a diverse local community by 2030′.
The executive member for housing and regeneration, Councillor Suzanne Richards, has also stressed the need to be ambitious with district centres during trying times.
Coun Richards said: “Covid-19 and lockdown have shown the importance of our shopping local and supporting local businesses
“This sort of development plan will prove crucial if we are serious about supporting local areas to recover following the pandemic.”
The plan includes a major redesign of Wilmslow Road, and the many roads that feed off the main thoroughfare, to make it safer for pedestrians to cross.
The Wellington Road junction by Withington Library could be closed up to create a more seamless public square and allow for a new community hub to be provided.
Copson Street, another side-street dominated by through-traffic, could also be completely pedestrianised to create a new public space for markets.
The historic shopfronts of Withington Village could also be restored alongside their more modern, colourful counterparts, which may increase in number.
Street art has also become a staple of the village’s character, mainly thanks to the Withington Walls campaign to install high quality artwork on walls and shop shutters, and the framework will earmark more suitable buildings to be used.
Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford has become the latest face to adorn a wall along the high street after campaigners worked with Manchester artist Akse to produce the work.
Residents can respond to the consultation on Manchester council’s website or by attending online consultation events on January 7 and January 12, with both taking place between 7pm and 8pm.
