People and communities Parks improvements funding 2021

Additional funding for Manchester parks and green spaces

This funding stream has now closed.

Parks Improvement Funding

The last year has shown our parks and green spaces to be a vital resource for Manchester residents.

Earlier this year we made £12.5m available to support a range of capital investment opportunities in the city's parks and green spaces, to realise our vision for parks to be the heart, lungs and soul of the city. 

We want to hear from local groups and organisations with ideas to use this funding to build upon, add to, or improve park assets. The £12.5m will be split: 

  • Parks in Partnership will invest £960,000 directly into local parks via local groups and organisations, with each Manchester ward receiving £30,000 for capital projects that raise standards (one year funding)
  • Parks Development Programme will support larger capital projects from £30,000 up to £2.5m (four year programme.) Working with external bodies and partners to secure match funding for major works will maximise the impact of this programme. 

Who can apply

Applications can be submitted by local community and voluntary groups, Friends of groups, current parks operators, charities and companies (registered companies or charities that apply will need to provide at least two years financial accounts.)

The type of projects that will be supported

Applications can be made for projects that are based in, or will support the development of Manchester parks. Check the list to make sure the park you wish to apply for is eligible. There are three types of parks:

Local parks

Small spaces that provide a focal point for local neighbourhoods and can be defined as one or more of the following: a grass area, play area, sports facility, flower-bed. Examples include Anfield Road, Bignor Street, Chesterton Road, High Bank and Mersey Bank.  

Community parks

Larger local parks that have a variety of facilities and features, and can host activities and small community events. Examples include Brookdale Park, Chorlton Park, Crowcroft Park, Didsbury Park, Fog Lane Park, Philips Park and Swinton Grove.  

Destination parks

Parks that provide a range of facilities and visitor attractions, and have a variety of distinctive features and open space that can be used in different ways, such as the hosting of major events. Examples include Alexandra Park, Boggart Hole Clough, Chorlton Water Park, Fletcher Moss Gardens, Heaton Park, Platt Fields Park and Wythenshawe Park. 

Applications for projects that will be delivered in Green spaces, River Valleys or Allotments will be considered, but they must clearly demonstrate how they will support the parks strategy and provide a reduction in expenditure. 

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