Manchester's future until 2039 is about to be decided as the council's local plan, which maps out where up to 60,000 new homes will be built around the city, moves closer to approval. The plan also outlines how it will help create new jobs and places for business.
Core growth area takes bulk of development
Places included in a 'core growth area' will take the bulk of work and have been earmarked for huge regeneration in future years, accounting for more than 42,000 new homes and 1.4 million sqm of office space. This includes central Manchester, where there are plans to expand the boundary of the city centre, as well as Holt Town near Ancoats and New Islington, Central Park near Harpurhey and Newton Heath, Sportcity in east Manchester, and part of the Victoria North project towards Collyhurst.
The core growth area is described as the 'economic hub' of Greater Manchester and is 'located at the heart of the transport connections across the north of England.' Other growth locations are mainly focused in areas such as Strangeways and around North Manchester General Hospital, alongside Wythenshawe and Manchester Airport.
Zero-carbon ambition and consultation
Manchester council said it wants the growth to help Manchester become a 'zero-carbon city' by 2038. The local plan is now at 'publication stage' as a final draft before being sent to an independent inspector to be reviewed, with the expectation that the proposals will be adopted in summer 2027. Before that, a public consultation has been launched until September 28.
Councillor Gavin White, who leads on housing and regeneration in Manchester, said: "It's important that future development plays its part well in making sure Manchester remains a great place to live, with great homes that our residents can afford in attractive neighbourhoods that they want to live in with quality green spaces nearby. This is the role of the local plan - to help guide development to help us deliver our vision and ambition."
Housing targets and final chance to comment
The local plan will complement a range of other strategies, including a housing strategy that has set an ambitious target to deliver at least 36,000 new homes by 2032 – 10,000 of which will be social, council and genuinely affordable homes. The local plan looks to increase the target of social rent and affordable homes each year to deliver the homes residents need.
White added: "Last year we saw thousands of responses that have helped guide our local plan review. This is the final chance for Manchester people to comment on the updated draft local plan, and we'd encourage as many people as possible to take part to play their part in guiding development in our city."
