New images show true extent of Wythenshawe town centre transformation with shops, public square and homes

New CGI images show how Wythenshawe’s town centre could look after a major transformation.

There are plans to create a ‘new cultural hub’ in the town centre within the former Co-operative department store. It will add to what’s already on show at the Civic Centre, and will ‘boost arts and creative industries in the wider Wythenshawe area’, according to Manchester City Council.

The hub would form part of a longer-term and much wider regeneration of the town centre, the authority added. It is currently seeking a partner to jointly develop the ‘Wythenshawe Civic Project’, as it is known.

The ambition — funded by a £20 million Levelling Up Fund grant — is to transform the 1970s shopping centre and surrounding areas by building a new public square, new shops, community and cultural space — plus around 1,600 new homes built on Council-owned land. The homes will be a mix of tenures including affordable rent and shared ownership options.   

“We want Wythenshawe Civic to deliver for local people and we’re thinking differently about what is already on offer in the town centre and what we can bring in to enhance the space, encourage more visitors to support the economy of the local area, and develop new job opportunities,” said Coun Luthfur Rahman, deputy council leader. “Cultural investment has proven an innovative way of supporting regeneration plans in different communities across the city – helping to broaden the visitor experience and attract new businesses. What this looks like and how it works is really up to the local people and organisations that will use it.  

“Of course, this is only one part of the ambitious plans that we have for Wythenshawe Civic but we hope this is a positive early step in creating a new destination town centre. We would urge as many people to take part as possible and help shape the Civic of the future.” 

If built, the hub will provide space and facilities for artists, creative firms, and community groups to work on projects. Council chiefs say ‘this could be local people looking for an opportunity to fulfil their creative bent – or support more established artists or collectives to grow and nurture their talent.’ Currently, the plans are out for public feedback, with a council consultation open until Sunday, February 4.