Fallowfield and Withington: Chance to shape action plan
12 February 2010
Residents, shoppers and traders in Fallowfield and Withington are being quizzed on their aspirations for the future of the areas’ two district centres.
Manchester City Council is producing district centre plans for Fallowfield and Withington which will set out a 10-15 year vision for improvements and guide investment in the two centres.
These action plans will be essential to support the future success of these two centres which are 600 metres apart linked by Wilmslow Road.
The consultation, which is launched in mid February and runs until 11 June, is asking residents, traders and shoppers for their views on issues and priorities for the district centres identified by the Council. Their responses will help shape the final plan.
The proposed vision for Fallowfield district centre, which stretches along Wilmslow Road from Owens Park to the Sainsbury's supermarket, would see it maintain its status as a vibrant centre known as a hub for student activity.
But it would also see the impact of students reduced, with more purpose-built accommodation reducing pressure on residential streets. The centre is also envisaged as an attractive daytime destination with better shopping choice, an improved street environment and more public space.
The proposed vision for Withington district centre would aim to protect and enhance its existing strengths including its strong village character and Conservation Area status. Expanding its range of shops and improving its street envionment and public space will help it thrive.
Councillor Val Stevens, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "Fallowfield and Withington district centres have considerable strengths but we need to plan ahead to identify the issues and priorities which have to be tackled to ensure their future success.
"We know that people who live, shop or work in these areas feel care deeply about them and their insights will be vital in shaping the final plans.
"Filling in the questionnaires, either using the freepost packs provided or online, should only take a few minutes. But anyone who takes the time to do so can be assured that they are helping influence improvements for years ahead."
Freepost questionnaires giving more detail about the consultation and asking for people's views will be available at consultation events across Fallowfield and Withington. For more information contact David Rogerson at the City Council's South Manchester Regeneraton Team on 0161 277 1880.
People will also be able to fill in the questionnaire online at www.manchester.gov.uk/southmanchesterregeneration
The deadline for responding to the consultation is 11 June 2010.
