New images showing the the future of Gorton have been revealed. It comes as a new masterplan which will help guide development in the heart of the area - including new shops, a public square and affordable housing - is approved.
The masterplan sets out aspirations for the area such as creating a night-time economy and expanding the existing indoor market to offer food and drink. The current gymnastics club could also move to a new facility, according to the plan which proposes a purpose-built centre that meets modern standards.
It also identifies council-owned land to the north of Garratt Way where new housing, commercial developments and public space could be created. In total, 400 new homes would be built under the plan, including affordable housing.
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Walking and cycling routes would also be improved to and through the area, according to the plan, including better pedestrian crossings on Hyde Road. The plan follows the new £22m Gorton Hub - a community building which accommodates a library, job centre and GP practice - opening in November.
Speaking at a Manchester council executive meeting on Thursday (January 18) where the development framework was approved, Gorton councillor Julie Reid said that this has been 'a long time coming'. She said: "Gorton's gone from going downhill to going uphill. Gorton people are proud of where they live."
The Labour councillor said that residents she has spoken to are 'excited' about walking and cycling improvements, highlighting opportunities for routes to join up with parks, as well as improvements to the recently widened Hyde Road.
A public consultation held over the Christmas period received more than 260 responses with the most of the feedback described as 'very positive'. As a result, greater emphasis has been placed on improving safety through lighting.
Respondents agreed that the area needs a new town centre that would be the focus of Gorton and could also host community events. But the council has concluded that better connections to Belle Vue train station are also needed.
The public consultation also identified the importance of supporting the gymnastics club to continue operating in the long-term. A council report on the plan confirms that any new facility in the future would be fully operational before closing at the existing site to ensure training continuity for the club.
Labour councillor Gavin White, who is Manchester council's executive member for housing and development, told the executive that face-to-face sessions were also held as part of the public consultation. He said: "This plan will look to really invest in Gorton and build on the recent investment through Gorton Hub.
"In the area, we've seen a new high school, new housing and a new youth zone as well. So there are some really good things are happening in Gorton.
"The plan talks about 400 new homes, a new town square, making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists and adding to the retail offer that's there for local residents. And to build on Gorton Market and really seeing the fantastic offer that's already there expand and be used for the wider community.
"I welcome these plans and proposals and it's a fantastic future for Gorton."
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