Mayor Bev Craig has outlined a plan to improve Piccadilly Gardens, including more police officers, new CCTV cameras, and better lighting. The announcement comes after the area gained a reputation that some people avoid, especially at night.
Investment and police presence
Manchester council is investing in the area, while the Greater Manchester mayor is working to address issues. Craig was asked on BBC Radio Manchester if she would feel safe walking through the gardens at night. She said she does walk there and acknowledged it could be better.
“It’s one of the reasons that I met with the Chief Constable on day two [of being mayor], it’s one of the reasons I took the GMP with me on a walk about in Piccadilly Gardens,” she said. “Obviously the council are putting this investment in, but there needs to be more police, there needs to be better CCTV and more lighting.”
“They’re installing the CCTV as we speak, the lighting is on its way, and police in the city centre have gone up from 40 cops to 64, and we want to see a permanent police presence in Piccadilly Gardens.”
Transformation plans
The council revealed a new vision for the gardens in June, aiming to put “pride” back in the landmark. Plans include more greenery, removing low concrete walls, and replacing fountains with space for activities and events. The council also extended powers to tackle anti-social behaviour, including public urination and waste dumping.
Residents and businesses shared mixed feelings in July. Eddie Coulson said: “It’s not a very good advert for Manchester, and on the side streets you get litter and bins overflowing. I would like to think the plans they have got will improve things here.”
Natalie Harding added: “I think it would be safer for kids and families if they could put a small fence around this play area. I think having more police would definitely help as well. There’s all sorts here during the day, you get workers here having their dinner, students, it’s such a mix of people. We’re from around here so we get used to it.”
