How the National Trust transformed Manchester’s Castlefield Viaduct into a 'garden in the sky'

The National Trust has started a pilot project on the Castlefield Viaduct in Manchester, transforming this historic piece of infrastructure into a ‘garden in the sky’ for the benefit of visitors, wildlife and local communities.

The 330-metre-long Grade II-listed viaduct sits in Castlefield, the oldest part of the city of Manchester. Built in 1892 by Heenan and Froude, the engineers who worked on the iconic Blackpool Tower, the viaduct was used to carry heavy rail traffic in and out of the Great Northern Warehouse until 1969.

The National Trust has been working with partners and local communities to bridge the past and present to create an elevated park in the sky. With 1 in 5 people struggling to get access to green spaces in urban areas, Castlefield Viaduct will bring nature closer to communities and allow them to enjoy the wellbeing benefits of spending time in green spaces. The viaduct has been given a new lease of life to not only support the community but to also care and protect the viaduct’s history for future generations to appreciate.

This project is being delivered in collaboration with National Highways Historical Railways Estate Team, supported by Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Transport for Greater Manchester, and local communities, businesses and supporters.

We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive. Everyone can get involved, everyone can make a difference. Nature, beauty, history. For everyone, for ever. You can donate to us at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/donate

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https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/donate