Manchester City Council has approved a planning application for a memorial for those who lost their lives in the 2017 Arena terror attack.
The memorial will be located between Manchester Cathedral and Chetham’s School of Music, at the meeting point of Fennel Street and Victoria Street.
Glade of Light has been designed as a tranquil garden space and living memorial using plants that grow naturally in the UK.
Lead Councillor Sir Richard Leese said: “Manchester will never forget those who lost their lives on 22 May 2017 and everyone so deeply affected by the terrible events that night.
“This memorial promises to be a beautiful tribute to them, a place for remembrance and reflection and a lasting part of the fabric of our city.”
The planting scheme and tree locations have been designed to maximise light and ensure year-round colour in reflection of the seasons.
At the heart of the memorial there will be a white stone ring ‘halo’ which will bear the names of the 22 who lost their lives set in bronze.
The stone will also encapsulate personalised mementos to be provided by their loved ones.
Chief Executive Joanne Roney OBE said: “The council made a solemn commitment that Manchester will never forget and to ensure a special and fitting memorial to those who lost their lives.
“We believe the proposals in this planning application, which have been painstakingly developed, honour that promise.”
The planning approval follows public consultations held in May and June this year on plans for the regeneration of Manchester’s Medieval Quarter, which found there was significant public support for the project.
Plans have also taken onboard suggestions from consultees, resulting in the addition of an outer circle path around the memorial and more seating to improve accessibility and capacity whilst preserving the memorial’s intimacy.
Designers BCA Landscape and Smiling Wolf were appointed last year in consultation with the families of those killed.
It is intended that construction work will begin in early 2021 with completion due in autumn 2021.
