The familiar hum of construction in Collyhurst signals more than just new buildings; it marks the tangible beginnings of a community-led revival poised to redefine this historic North Manchester neighborhood for generations. As dust settles on the initial phase of development, a pivotal moment has arrived for residents as they are invited to co-author the next stage of this ambitious transformation. An in-depth public consultation has officially launched, presenting a unique opportunity for the community to influence the design, housing, and green spaces that will shape their future environment.
This initiative is not merely about seeking opinions; it is about embedding local knowledge and aspirations into the very foundation of the neighborhood’s renewal. Following a high-level consultation that concluded in late 2025, which set the guiding principles for investment, the current process aims to translate broad concepts into detailed, community-approved plans. The focus is now on the specifics of “Phase Two,” a significant chapter in Collyhurst’s story that will introduce hundreds of new homes and expanded public amenities. The project team has proactively engaged with households within the proposed development boundary, ensuring their immediate needs are central to the emerging designs.
Beyond the Construction Site What’s Really Happening in Collyhurst
Beneath the visible progress of cranes and scaffolding lies a meticulously planned, multi-phase regeneration strategy. The ongoing work is the first tangible result of a long-term commitment to revitalize the area, with the first 35 of 274 homes in Phase One now complete. This milestone is particularly meaningful as it includes the delivery of the first new Council homes for social rent, a cornerstone of the project’s commitment to affordability and community stability.
A central achievement of this initial phase is the fulfillment of a promise made to former residents of the area’s demolished maisonettes. For years, these individuals were displaced from the community, but the project has created a dedicated pathway for their return. They are now being supported to move into new, high-quality homes in South Collyhurst, allowing them to reconnect with their roots and be part of the neighborhood’s next chapter. The remaining homes from Phase One are being completed in stages throughout the current year, steadily building momentum for the larger vision.
The Bigger Picture Collyhurst as the Heart of North Manchester’s Transformation
The regeneration of Collyhurst is a crucial element of the Victoria North program, one of the most significant urban renewal projects in the United Kingdom. This joint venture between Manchester City Council and the Far East Consortium (FEC) is set to deliver over 15,000 new homes across seven neighborhoods in the coming years. Collyhurst was intentionally selected as one of the first areas for this massive investment, recognizing its strategic importance and the community’s long-standing need for revitalization.
The long-term vision extends far beyond housing. The project’s ambitions were recently bolstered by Victoria North’s shortlisting for the UK Government’s New Towns Taskforce, which provides expert support for delivering large-scale regeneration. This national recognition strengthens the case for a new Metrolink tram stop at Sandhills, an infrastructure project viewed as a game-changer for the area. This proposed transport link is expected to unlock significant future investment, creating the necessary conditions for new local amenities such as shops, medical facilities, and a new school.
From Blueprint to Reality Unpacking the Regeneration Plan
The second phase of development is set to introduce approximately 550 new homes, with proposals heavily influenced by community feedback gathered during the initial consultation. A primary objective is to maintain a strong focus on affordable housing, ensuring the neighborhood remains accessible to local people. Learning from the success of Phase One, where 130 homes were designated for social rent, a similar commitment is anticipated for this next stage. The current consultation seeks public input on the specific mix of housing types needed to serve the community, from family homes to apartments.
Beyond the brick-and-mortar development, Phase Two places a significant emphasis on creating a healthier and more connected environment. A key proposal is the creation of a new community park, designed to serve as a green heart for the neighborhood. Residents are being asked to share their ideas on the design of this new public space, as well as on plans for improved walking and cycling routes that will better link Collyhurst Village and South Collyhurst. These elements are not afterthoughts but are integral to building a sustainable and vibrant community. Subsequent phases will see proposals developed for Collyhurst Village in the coming years, with more detailed plans for South Collyhurst emerging in the longer term.
A Voice for the Vision Leadership on Collyhurst’s Potential
The commitment to a resident-focused regeneration is a message echoed by city leadership. The project’s direction is guided by the principle that development must first and foremost benefit the existing community, ensuring that growth is inclusive and equitable. This approach acknowledges the patience of residents who have waited many years for investment and seeks to reward that patience with meaningful and lasting improvements.
In a recent statement, Cllr Bev Craig OBE, Leader of Manchester City Council, underscored this commitment. “Collyhurst was chosen as one of the first areas for investment as part of the Victoria North project because we know the huge potential of the area,” she stated. “Our absolute priority is that the investment works for the people who already live here.” She celebrated the progress made, including the completion of the first social rent homes and the return of former residents, while looking ahead to the expansive goals of Phase Two and the transformative potential of the proposed Sandhills tram stop.
How to Make Your Voice Heard A Guide to the Community Consultation
To ensure every resident has the opportunity to participate, a series of accessible consultation events have been organized. Two in-person sessions will be held at the Church of the Saviour on Eggington Street on Tuesday, March 3rd, offering both an afternoon meeting at 1:30 p.m. and an evening option at 6:30 p.m. These events will provide a platform for residents to review the proposals, ask questions directly to the project team, and provide detailed feedback.
For those seeking a more informal setting, members of the regeneration team will host a pop-in session at Kylie’s Kitchen on Wednesday, March 4th, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Recognizing the specific needs of those most directly impacted, a dedicated session has also been arranged for residents living within the proposed boundary for Phase Two to discuss their individual housing requirements. For individuals unable to attend any of the in-person events, the full consultation materials and feedback forms are available online, ensuring that everyone’s voice can be heard.
The plans presented were not final blueprints but a starting point for a conversation about Collyhurst’s future. The feedback gathered during this critical period of engagement was set to directly inform the detailed designs that will be submitted for planning approval later in the year. Through this collaborative process, the next chapter in the neighborhood’s history was poised to be one written not just for the community, but by the community itself.
