National Trust
To gain planning permission and listed building consent for the Phase 2 extension of the linear park at Castlefield Viaduct in central Manchester, including permanent use of hugely successful Phase 1 pilot scheme first opened in 2022.
The team advised on the recommended planning strategy for the project from an early stage of development, to secure the permanent use of Phase 1 along with the Phase 2 extension. RJP led pre-application discussions with Manchester City Council along with submission of the planning and listed building consent application. Although the principle of extending the urban park along the disused viaduct was widely supported by the Council, statutory consultees and the community, the application process was complex from a development management perspective. This was due in part to the fragmented land ownership, the high-profile nature of the application, and the site’s location adjacent to a live tram network. RJP worked closely with the multidisciplinary team to refine the plans, provide proportionate justifications for design decisions, and ensure a joined-up approach between the various advisors. RJP proactively sought to resolve queries by working with statutory consultees directly and built the trust of the client and design team over the duration of the project.
Planning permission and listed building consent was granted in April 2025.
”Fantastic job everyone - thank you so much for all your hard work.”