A new initiative that will create an uninterrupted 110-mile network of walking and cycling routes across Manchester and Salford is set to launch to give the cities’ residents better access to nature.
Named, Cyan Lines, the initiative will connect existing routes while also incorporating existing pocket parks, canals, squares, and rivers.
It will join up green and blue spaces such as New Islington Marina, Mayfield Park, and Castlefield Viaduct Park.
Cyan Lines will launch on 10 September with an event at Aviva Studios in Manchester.
Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council said “The city has exciting plans in the long term but there’s more that we can do together, Cyan Lines is an exciting new initiative over the next decade to imagine and create 100 miles of connected parks, green spaces and waterfronts. As well as making our city a more attractive place, Cyan Lines will bring together the private, public, charity and voluntary sectors to unlock a raft of benefits for the city, from better health and wellbeing, through to increased urban biodiversity, a boost to tourism, more walking and cycling routes and, crucially, increasing the city’s resilience in the face of the changing climate.”
Manchester City Council is supporting and co-ordinating all Cyan Lines activity while it explores the most appropriate governance and delivery options, such as a CIC or charity.
The initiative is being steered by Tom Bloxham chairman of Urban Splash and co-founder of Planit Pete Swift.
Tom Bloxham chairman of Urban Splash said “We did not have hunting grounds for kings, dukes and lords in Manchester, so we have no grand central parks, but we do have excellent green, blue and brown spaces which, if joined up will provide an amazing legacy for future generations. Our Cyan Lines network will not just connect these amazing spaces but will create opportunities for more projects and for residents, community groups, businesses and charities to get involved.”
Peter Swift co-founder of Planit said “Greater Manchester’s towns and cities are slowly turning greener, but the pace is too slow. We look to cities like Copenhagen and Paris where through intentional and focused partnerships, united behind bold visions, good change can happen quickly. By reclaiming our urban spaces, connecting them up and creating green vibrant life, where people and nature can thrive, we will deliver a truly incredible legacy for the city and the millions living across its ten connected boroughs.”
Learn more about Cyan Lines here.
