Tributes have been pouring in for visionary property-pioneer Carol Ainscow, who transformed Manchester’s Canal Street into the vibrant gay district it is today.
Ms Ainscow, 55, passed away on Thursday following a month-long battle with a brain tumour.
The Bolton-born trailblazer bought her first property with a £30,000 loan but over the years built up a multi-million pound business and founded Artisan Property Developers.
In 1990, alongside business partner Peter Dalton, Ms Ainscow bought a run-down building on Canal Street and turned it into Manto Bar – one of the first openly-gay bars in Manchester. This move signalled the beginning of Canal Streets metamorphosis into the exuberant gay scene it offers today.
Manto bar launched her as a driving force behind Manchester’s nightlife scene. She transformed Factory Records’ head office into a three-storey nightclub. However, the former-teacher soon diversified her powerhouse portfolio to include city apartments including various shops and projects in Russell Street.
Many inspired by her efforts to create a space where gay, lesbian and transgender people feel safe and accepted have taken to twitter to celebrate her legacy.
Founder of The Warehouse Project, Sacha Lord Marchionne, tweeted: “RIP Carol Ainscow. @WHP_Mcr would never have happened without her. A true Manchester Legend #RIPCarolAinscow.”
Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, praised the profound impact she had on Manchester city as a whole.
He said: “Carol was a true Manchester entrepreneur and someone who made a significant contribution to the regeneration of the city. Her loss is shocking and saddening.”
The Lesbian and Gay Foundation launched a Community Remembrance book yesterday to commemorate her impact on Manchester’s gay community. A number of people spoke at the launch mentioning how Carol had played an important part in their lives and to the lives of everyone who enjoys Manchester’s world famous gay village.
Paul Martin, Chief Executive of The Lesbian and Gay Foundation, said: “Carol had a huge influence on Manchester’s gay community and we owe her a massive debt of gratitude for enabling lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people to have an area of the city to call their own.
“She was instrumental in showing that gay venue’s can feel safe and be places where we can be seen without fear or prejudice.”
The Book has been created by a partnership of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans groups and organisations in Manchester. It can be accessed through visiting The Lesbian & Gay Foundation’s Community Resource Centre, Number 5 Richmond Street, Manchester. Tel:0845 3 30 30 30.
Picture courtesy of Emilstefanov via Flickr, with thanks.
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