Work to start on new public square for suburb

The proposals includes change to roads outside Withington Library

Work to pedestrianise the centre of a Manchester suburb and turn it into a public square that "residents can be proud of" is set to begin next week.

The project in Withington starts on Monday and will see the closure of part of Wellington Road outside the area's library to create a larger public space.

Manchester City Council's scheme will also include the part-pedestrianisation of nearby Copson Street, with work due to start there in the new year.

Councillor Gavin White said the project was all about giving Withington residents "pride of place" and creating a "more welcoming" public space.

The project, which will be paused over the Christmas period, is expected to be completed by March.

Work will start to expand the pedestrian area on Monday

Changes around Withington Library will see the junction from Wellington Road to Wilmslow Road shut off with Rippingham Road made one way travelling westbound.

Davenport Avenue will also be made one way towards the busy commuter route of Wilmslow Road to "deter non-local traffic", councillor planners have said.

New trees and paving will be put in place in the newly expanded area of public space.

Meanwhile, a section of Copson Street between Wilmslow Road and Patten Street will be partly pedestrianised with new trees, lights and seats added.

The route will be made one way from west to east, with access limited to blue badge holders, waste, emergency and loading vehicles, as well as office employees.

It comes after 72 per cent of people who took part in a consultation backed changes to the areas to make them more attractive, a council spokeswoman said.