Manchester City Council has announced a pedestrianisation trial for two streets in the Gay Village, set to begin on July 10. The trial aims to encourage outdoor seating and could become permanent if successful, following similar projects in the Northern Quarter.
Streets affected and venue benefits
Bloom Street, between Abingdon Street and Chorlton Street, will become one-way from Chorlton Street to Princess Street. Richmond Street, between Sackville Street and Chorlton Street, will be completely closed to through traffic. Venues in the trial area, including New York New York, The Goose, Iconic, The Eagle, and The Molly House, could expand their outdoor offerings over the summer.
Logistics and background
Deliveries, waste collection, and resident access will continue as usual. The trial mirrors the pedestrianisation of Thomas Street and Stevenson Square in the Northern Quarter, which were initially temporary and later made permanent. New barriers will be installed to fit the area's character.
Future and community input
The council will gather data over the summer to assess long-term viability. The trial is expected to remain during the new Manchester Village Pride over the late August Bank Holiday weekend. Councillor Mandie Shilton Godwin, executive member for clean air, environment and transport, said: “The Gay Village is one of our most precious communities... We’re excited to be trialling additional outdoor seating for these streets, and we hope to bring the same success that we’ve seen in the Northern Quarter.” She urged people to participate in the consultation.
