A new civic movement is calling for people to name the good, bad and ugly of Manchester’s architecture with its first award ceremony.
Founded in March, Manchester Shield was set up by a group of campaigners who think locals should have a stronger say in the city’s development.
Now, the group is encouraging people to vote online for the best and worst decisions made in city planning since the millennium.
Just some of the contenders include Beetham Tower, the Etihad Stadium and the Library Walk.
The Manchester Shield poll also includes unbuilt projects and new proposals.
The awards have been split up into 17 categories with the winners, and losers, to be announced during an evening of live music at the Star and Garter for the First People’s Awards & Unforgivables Show on July 7.
“There are many successes and good developments, but there are also epic failures that need to be called out,” said Manchester Shield founder Adam Prince.
“Often politicians, leaders and developers tell us what we like and should think in Manchester.
“We really want people to vote and express their opinions and also to be aware that there is a huge group of people out there seeking changes.”
“For once the people get to speak and vote for themselves and show what they really value and despise.”
☆RT☆ 1st @mcrshield People’s Vote best & worst built Manchester. Media & live awards soon 》 https://t.co/KpMqD2YKuN《 pic.twitter.com/yqQg2RNcSh
— @McrShield (@mcrshield) May 28, 2016
Adam also helped set up the Friends of London Road Fire Station campaign which played a key role in ending one of Manchester’s longest development battles.
The London Road Fire Station, which has been in disrepair for three decades, has finally been sold on after Britannia Hotels failed to redevelop the iconic building.
The building has been taken over by Allied London who developed the city’s Spinningfields area and the old Granada Studios.
“Not collaborating with civic ambitions or valuing people’s opinions can lead to damaging legacies for Manchester,” said Manchester Shield member Yigal Landley.
“There has been the demolition of too much heritage.”
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Image courtesy of Rachel Dockerty, Mattwi10n and Mikey via Flickr, with thanks.
