A fortnight ago, Manchester opened its first park in over one hundred years.
Located just six minutes from Piccadilly Station, Mayfield Park has already proven popular with locals since opening.
Mancunian Matters went down to check out the new addition to the city centre and hear the thoughts of local residents.
Sprawling rivers and beautiful flowerbeds are contrasted with industrial architecture and workbenches.
The juxtaposition is fitting – the new city-centre green haven within sight and earshot of busy roads.
The park is styling itself as the “new green heart” of Manchester, and is distinctly modern, transforming the industrial wastelands near the station into this new venture.
And there is fun to be had too: an adventure play area with eight huge slides and a variety of playground equipment suitable for all ages, which adults seem to be enjoying just as much as children.
Some locals have complained about the lack of accommodation for dog walkers, with signs all around the park instructing dog owners to keep their pets off the greenery.
However, this is not a universal sentiment.
Gary, 52, is a local resident living in Ancoats with his whippet Devo (named after the band).
“We are limited on green spaces, so you kind of eke it out where you can,” Gary said.
“And this really helps, because it has got the water running through it, it kind of meanders through with the different viewing points, and it just extends the walk and the interest from New Islington Marina.
“Some areas still need a lot of work, but you do get these little oases, and it works.”
Mayfield Park is one product of a £1.1billion public-private partnership with development company U+I which will develop the Mayfield area.
Mayfield will also be filled with independent businesses, offices, and a residential neighbourhood.
Despite private involvement, the park will act as a public park in practice, remaining open 24/7.
Martyn Evans, creative director of U+I, told the Guardian that the park will be operated “on the same basis as any other public park in Manchester, and open from dawn till dusk”.
Many have commented on feeling safe in Mayfield, with the budget involved with the park making it possible to have CCTV cameras and security around the park.
Kate, a Withington resident who was at the park with her young son and partner, also appreciates having a safe new space in the centre of town.
“I think it’s a really good addition: the closest other green space is Piccadilly Gardens, which isn’t really anywhere anyone would want to hang out”, she said.
“We wouldn’t feel comfortable with our son there, but here we can bring him.”
