The consultation undertaken over the summer presented proposals for future investment in Moston Lane that aims to support the area to meet its potential over the next decade and more, including a new public square, improved green spaces and affordable housing.
The proposals set out a vision for Moston Lane as a ‘vibrant centre where families, community and culture mix along rejuvenated street and new community focused spaces.’
Around 500 responses were received through the consultation process with the headline proposals positively received.
The key themes fed back from the community included:
• Green spaces – to include improved and more visible public green spaces, with more colour and a wider selection of planting.
• Public Square – the majority of respondents welcomed the idea of a new public square. The exact location is yet to be agreed and its design will be subject to further public consultation.
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• Shops on the Lane – a desire to widen the shopping offer in the area, citing a current oversupply of takeaways, convenience stores and hair and beauty salons. The framework aims to encourage a wider variety of retailers by facilitating larger retail units, with opportunities for existing businesses to grow. A package of business support measures is also proposed for the area.
• Affordable Housing – the majority of respondents were in support of additional homes around Moston Lane, including affordable tenures to meet high demand.
• Social Infrastructure – in response to new housing, the framework will explore, in consultation with NHS and health partners, how health services and education facilities could be considered as part of future development.
Following consultation, the updated development plan includes seven opportunities for change on Moston Lane - building on the area’s strengths and identifying investment:
• Establish a stronger local centre with the creation of a new community focused public space
• Support the delivery of new homes, including affordable housing
• Improve the quality and management of the existing private rented homes
• Enhance the quality of the public realm along Moston Lane
• Support more sustainable movement and active travel through Moston Lane and the surrounding green spaces
• Enhance existing public spaces for the local community
• Manage and improve car parking within the centre
The Council has also already been awarded £5million through the Government's Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) to invest and improve district centres across Manchester.
