By Sarah Macklin Manchester City Council has unveiled an ambitious £25 million regeneration plan for Moston Lane, aiming to transform the area into a vibrant community hub.
This initiative is part of a broader £90 million investment strategy to revitalise north Manchester, focusing on public spaces, affordable housing, and economic growth.
Creating a new public square for Moston Lane
Central to the regeneration is the creation of a new public square, designed to become the focal point of the high street. The square will feature flexible spaces for markets and community events, along with seating, lighting, trees, and planting.
Several properties between Pym Street and Hartley Street have been acquired for demolition to make way for this development.
As part of the regeneration programme, the existing Moston Superstore will move from its current location to the car park on Kenyon Lane, and a planning application by the store owner is expected imminently to allow this relocation. Parking provision will be replaced in several locations around Moston Lane, including dedicated supermarket parking spaces.
Alongside the new public square, the 2023 framework indicated that the site could also accommodate around 80 new homes – potentially a mix of apartments and town houses – including social and genuinely affordable tenures.
The ground floor spaces are envisaged as new retail and commercial opportunities to enliven the offer on Moston Lane, along with potential health and community facilities.
The Council has now commenced the process of disposing of this site to a developer, who will then prepare a planning application for the new scheme following consultation with the local community.
Delivering affordable homes for local residents
The regeneration plan includes around 80 new homes, a mix of apartments and townhouses, with social and genuinely affordable tenures to meet local demand. Ground-floor spaces will provide opportunities for retail, commercial, health, or community facilities, creating a lively and practical environment for residents.
New family homes and green spaces at Watermans Close
To the south of Moston Lane, a site between Watermans Close and Ebsworth Street will deliver 30 to 40 new family homes, along with high-quality green spaces. The chosen developer for both sites will be announced by March 2026, followed by public consultations and planning applications.
Putting the community at the heart of the regeneration
The Council is establishing a new advisory group, chaired by local councillors, to give residents and businesses a voice in shaping the regeneration of Moston Lane.
The group will guide local priorities and work with developers on the design of the new square and public realm. Residents interested in joining can contact the North Neighbourhoods Team at northneighbourhoodteam@manchester.gov.uk.
Leader of the Council, Bev Craig, emphasised Manchester City Council’s commitment to Moston:
“Manchester City Council is ambitious for Moston and committed to working with the local community to see the improvements local people have been asking for. We have an ambitious plan for Moston and know that Moston Lane has a huge amount of potential.
“The first projects completed over the summer were a statement of intent from the Council that we are serious about investing and improving the area. This comes on top of the recent news of Pride in Place funding going into the wider local area.
“New homes, a new public square, investment into the look and feel of the area, work to attract new businesses and jobs and celebrating community pride are so important. Currently missing is a space that creates a proper focal point on the high street and the new public square will be somewhere local people can come together, put on events and take pride in their district centre. And we also know that this community needs more social rent and genuinely affordable homes – that’s why we are bringing forward two ambitious housing projects to meet demand.
“This is only the start for Moston and our investment in this neighbourhood is part of a citywide commitment to improving high streets across the city, supporting local businesses and economic growth, while creating local spaces our residents want to spend time in.”
What’s next for Moston Lane?
The regeneration of Moston Lane marks the start of a transformative programme in north Manchester. With a focus on community engagement, affordable housing, and vibrant public spaces, the project aims to deliver long-term benefits for residents. Ongoing consultations will ensure that the development reflects local aspirations as the plans move forward.
How other public spaces have transformed communities
Manchester’s commitment to revitalising public spaces is evident in several recent projects:
- Albert Square: Undergoing a dramatic transformation to blend the city’s rich heritage with modern, inclusive, and sustainable design elements. The redevelopment aims to create a space that serves both residents and visitors, enhancing the city’s cultural and civic life.
- Sadler’s Yard: Opened in 2015, this public square and event space in the NOMA district has become a hub for community gatherings and cultural events. Its design prioritises accessibility and flexibility, accommodating a variety of activities.
- St Peter’s Square: Home to significant landmarks like the Manchester Cenotaph and the statue of Emmeline Pankhurst, this square has been a site of historical importance. Recent enhancements aim to improve accessibility and public engagement.
These examples demonstrate how thoughtful design and community involvement can transform public spaces into vibrant, inclusive areas that serve the needs of all residents.
