Work has officially commenced on a new urban infrastructure project at the entrance to Manchester Piccadilly station. Known as the “Station Sanctuary,” the project involves the transformation of a previously grey, underused outdoor area into a vibrant, biodiverse garden designed to serve as a green gateway for the city.
The construction phase focuses on a nature-led design that incorporates 40 modular rainwater planters, alongside integrated pillars and seating. These elements are being co-created by local community groups and volunteers. The project is an innovative collaboration between Network Rail, the National Trust, Sow the City, and Manchester Action on Street Health (MASH), with additional support from Manchester City Council, Transport for Greater Manchester, and funding from United Utilities.
A key aspect of the build is the involvement of women supported by the charity MASH—many of whom have experienced homelessness in the station area—who have been central to the co-design and co-creation of the space. The garden is scheduled to be fully open to the public in spring 2026.
Rebecca Foy, Network Rail’s regeneration and placemaking specialist, said: “Manchester Piccadilly is both the welcome and farewell to our city, and through Station Sanctuary we’re shaping it to better reflect Manchester’s character and creativity. This project marks a new creative and collaborative approach for Network Rail. Together, we’re transforming an underused space into a greener, more colourful and more welcoming place where our passengers, visitors and local communities can relax and enjoy.”
Jon Ross, founder and chief executive at Sow the City, highlighted the importance of urban land use, stating: “As a Manchester-based organisation, we are incredibly proud to be transforming Piccadilly Station into a vibrant, green oasis. This garden will reconnect people with nature in one of the busiest parts of the city, and show that even the most unexpected places can support biodiversity.”
The finished site will feature information panels regarding urban ecology and Manchester’s wider “green and blue” spaces. Rachel Shore, project engagement coordinator at MASH, added: “Together, we feel proud to be using our skills to transform an underused site in the station area into a thriving, nature-rich space that embodies the vibrant spirit of our city.”
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