New images reveal Piccadilly Gardens revamp plans
Local Democracy Reporting ServiceNew images showing how Manchester's Piccadilly Gardens could be transformed into a place people "can be proud of" haves been released as part of a consultation.
The vision behind the plans is to turn Piccadilly Gardens into an area which feels "safer and greener", with a new space for activities and events throughout the year.
The gardens have long faced criticism for becoming run down and attracting a hive of antisocial behaviour.
Drop-in sessions will be held on 23, 26 and 27 June at Manchester Art Gallery in Mosley Street for people to discuss the plans and give feedback.
The gardens' refurbuishment would include ripping out the "unsightly'" low concrete walls and raised planters close to the Queen Victoria statue, and improving the statue's setting.
The old and "unreliable" fountains would also be removed to create a new flexible structure known as the "welcome pavilion" to be used as a space for activities and events, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.
Local Democracy Reporting ServiceMore greenery would be brought in to spruce up the gardens in a nod to its more flowery past, with lawns, trees, planting, seating, and colourful displays for people to enjoy.
A new, larger playground for children is planned similar to recently-created play areas at Mayfield Park and Ancoats Green.
Council leader Bev Craig said: "We all want to see a space which Mancunians can be proud of - a welcoming and attractive environment which people want to spend time in."
A design team has been working to flesh out the vision of plans revealed by the council last year.
The council said previous consultations have captured how people in the city feel about Piccadilly Gardens, and that their views have been heard "loud and clear".
A pre-planning consultation has started running until 15 July with more information on the council's website.
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