Manchester ‘park in the sky’ to open in Grade II-listed former viaduct

A “park in the sky” at a former viaduct in Manchester is to open at the end of the month, the National Trust has announced.

Situated along the Grade II-listed Castlefield Viaduct, the 330-metre temporary park is inspired by New York’s High Line public park, and features 3,000 plant species in gardens created by architects and community groups.

As part of the National Trust’s move into more deprived urban areas, the 12-month pilot project aims to explore Manchester’s history and introduce some greenery into a post-industrial landscape dominated by grey and brown steel and red brick. It will be open to visitors from 30 July.

The £1.8m development has been made possible by funds raised by the People’s Postcode Lottery and public donations. Charity fundraising aims to make the site a permanent feature of Manchester’s skyline.