Viaduct's 'sky park' to more than double in size

An urban "sky park" filled with landscaped gardens will more than double in length following a funding boost of more than £2.5m.

The National Trust said the money would be used to further transform the 125-year-old, Grade II-listed Castlefield Viaduct in Manchester city centre.

The conservation charity's plans include building winding paths through planted areas to "encourage people to take time out from the busy city below and connect with nature".

Its regional director for the North of England, Mike Innerdale, said: "We spent the last 18 months talking to the community about what they want it to be. They want it to be a haven where nature and people come together in a historic environment."

Plants were first bedded along a section of the railway structure in 2022 by the National Trust as part of efforts to create an elevated green corridor in the city centre.

Current visitors to Castlefield Viaduct can walk through a series of green spaces and gardens before seeing an overgrown section behind a glass wall.

Phase two of the viaduct's transformation plan will extend the visitor attraction from 150m (164 yds) in length to more than 350m (383 yds).

National Highway's Historical Railways Estate Team, working in partnership with the National Trust, has committed £2.4m to fund a significant part of the structural and foundation work that is needed for the expansion.

Further £100,000 contributions come from Manchester City Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

The Railway Heritage Trust is also adding £150,000.

"This is really an iconic part of Manchester - to have phase two secured is something quite special," said Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig.

"Phase one was a massive proof of concept to show it would work and people would love it.

"The fact people have been desperate to see more of it shows the potential.

"I think there is a growing appetite to make sure we don't lose sight of the heritage."

The structural work is expected to start in the autumn, with the new section likely to open in the summer of 2026.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.