Introduction
The area surrounding Albert Square, the focus of Manchester's civic spaces, was designated a conservation area in April 1972.
The boundary followed Cross Street, Tib Lane, Clarence Street, Bow Lane, the backs of properties on Princess Street, Kennedy Street, Cooper Street, Princess Street, Mosley Street, Library Walk, Central Street, Jackson's Row, Lloyd Street and the backs of properties across to John Dalton Street.
In June 1985, the conservation area was extended to include the area bounded by Lloyd Street, Deansgate and John Dalton Street. Other conservation areas have been designated or extended nearby, such that all the Albert Square Conservation Area boundaries are common with boundaries of other conservation areas, creating a comprehensive coverage of the Victorian city centre.