Manchester’s Mayfield regeneration site to host LGBT+ festival
A 24-acre regeneration site and former railway station in Manchester will become home to a new element of one of the world’s leading LGBT+ festivals – the Manchester Pride Festival.
Developer U+I says they have ‘worthwhile’ policy for their regeneration projects, which puts sites into use before development to ‘aid place-making and deliver social and economic benefits.’
Mayfield Station stands adjacent to Manchester Picadilly and has stood derelict for over 30 years. However, since U + I was appointed to the project it has hosted club nights, street food festivals and private parties.
It is ultimately hoped the area will feature 75,000 m2 of new commercial office space, retail and hotel accommodation, as well as more than 1,400 homes.
In 2016, regeneration specialist U+I was appointed as a development partner to deliver the Mayfield regeneration project as part of The Mayfield Partnership, which also comprises LCR, Manchester City Council and Transport for Greater Manchester.
James Heather, Development Director for U+I, said: ‘It is a privilege to be able to provide a new home this year for such an iconic, ground-breaking and purposeful festival and we are delighted to be working with Manchester Pride to help create what will be a stunning weekend in a stunning location.
‘Manchester Pride Live will introduce a whole new audience to Mayfield and is another important step for us as we re-introduce a long hidden and under-used asset to the people of Manchester and beyond and as we progress our long-term vision for the site.’
Mark Fletcher, chief executive for Manchester Pride, added: ‘Manchester Pride Live will be one of the most innovative projects we have delivered to date and our intention is to make it a world-leading celebration of LGBT+ life.
‘The venue, much like us, is part of the foundations of our city and will provide a spectacular backdrop to what will be a uniquely inclusive experience where the LGBT+ people of Manchester can truly celebrate their culture in a safe and welcoming environment.
‘The Mayfield Partnership is the perfect partner for Manchester Pride. Its commitment to creating an accessible and inclusive new neighbourhood in the city and the values it espouses are in perfect synergy with everything we hold close as an LGBT+ campaigning charity. We are excited to deliver great things together.’
