The ‘hated’ Piccadilly Gardens wall set to be replaced by a line of shops could be saved by a Manchester-based action group.
The Concerned Mancunians Group have launched a petition opposing the erection of shops against the so-called ‘Berlin Wall’ and instead want greenery adding to it.
They hope to stop the construction of any further buildings in the Gardens to preserve green space.
Plans to create the new stores were devised between council officials and current leaseholders L&G – and announced by Councillor Pat Karney in November.
“Under the Councillor Karney’s leadership as the Supremo of Central Manchester, the place has been declining for some time,” a group spokesman said.
“Now, he has come up with the hare-brain idea of covering the Wall at the Piccadilly Gardens with shacks of little shops.
“We do not want to see the precious little open space that we have in the Piccadilly Gardens being eroded by further buildings.”
Although the wall is renowned as an eyesore, the group believe it could be camouflaged by greenery to minimise its oppressive effect.
Councillor Karney also suggested constructing a roof top garden to appease Green lovers, which has drawn further criticism.
“He wants us to enjoy green by sitting in one of his shacks and craning our necks to the roofs of the shops while listening to the elusive bird-songs,” the group spokesman said.
“We know his leader waxes lyrical about the invisible roof garden at the Piccadilly Gardens, but it is a ridiculous proposition to create garden which will remain invisible to others while destroying the green open spaces.
“I have not seen yet Councillor Karney’s Christmas lights this year but I am dreading the prospect of it being as tacky as his new set of proposals.”
So far, 17 people have signed the petition, which will be passed onto the council if more than 100 people provide their signature.
You can view the petition by clicking here.
Image courtesy of Shaundon, with thanks.
