City to host new-look New Year's Eve celebrations

Manchester is preparing a New Year's Eve party with a difference to see in 2025.

A fireworks spectacular will be held for the first time in the city's St Peter's Square, launched from the roof of the area's landmark Central Library.

The council-hosted event will run from 22:00 GMT until 00:30 and is expected to attract around 20,000 people.

Councillor Pat Karney, the council's city centre manager, said: "All you need is your dancing shoes, party spirit and your nearest and dearest. Grab hold of those and we can't wait to see you in St Peter's Square for the last party of 2024."

People have been advised there will be standing room-only, but there will be a managed viewing area on the Metrolink tram platform closest to Central Library.

There will also be no tram services through St Peter's Square from 20:00 to end of service on Tuesday, while several surrounding streets will be closed to traffic.

The council said bag searches would be in operation at the entrances for the free event.

Security staff will be on duty and the Lloyd Street public toilets will remain open until 01:00 GMT with temporary toilets also provided.

Mr Karney added: "We want everyone to be able to enjoy New Year's Eve, including the growing number of local residents who live in town - I will therefore be working closely with local councillors and others to ensure that we minimise any nuisance for city centre residents."

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Northwest community group has organised a New Year's Day clean-up.

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