Donate to Castlefield Viaduct

How your donation can help to keep Castlefield Viaduct growing

Increasing access to green space

Green spaces lift, revive and ground us. They are the lungs of our cities and allow biodiversity to thrive. They are critical to our wellbeing and to the wellbeing of the planet, but access to greenspace is unequal. 84% of people in the UK live in towns and cities, and across the UK one in five people struggle to access quality green spaces. This shortage is critically felt in Manchester, one of the top 10 most green space deprived areas in the country.

Protecting heritage

Castlefield Viaduct creates a safe, accessible and nature-rich green space in the city where people can connect with nature, heritage and each other. In taking on a new purpose, it also means this significant historical structure is protected - evolving into a new green landmark and reclaiming its place in Manchester's skyline.

In 2022 the National Trust and partners reimagined half of the 330m steel structure as a vibrant garden, with free access for all. Since then, Castlefield Viaduct has become the pride of Manchester - an elevated city-centre oasis, that's welcomed over 200,000 people, becoming a spingboard for work with community groups and making a real difference to people's lives.

Keeping it growing

The viaduct was initially opened as a trial to spark imaginations and see what local people wanted it to become. They've told us they want the viaduct to stay and become a nature-rich through-route, so that's what we're determined to do. We’re now ready to take the next step, doubling the size of the park for nature and for people, and creating a through-route. But we can’t do it alone.

Along with our partners and supporters, our collective goal is to keep it growing  - making it bigger, better and more beneficial for people and nature. Every donation we receive, large or small, will make a difference towards this goal.

What your donation can be used for

Our goal is to make Castlefield Viaduct the best place it can be for people and for wildlife. Your donation could help to:

• plant nature-friendly flowers and trees, increasing the habitat, food sources and shelter for the many insects, bats, birds and small mammals that already call the Viaduct home
• grow green solutions, such as rain water capture and experimental “dry” gardening practices, which will show all of us how urban gardens can help in the response to climate change
• enrich the experience through seating, interpretation and other facilities, making it a relaxing green escape from the busy city and somewhere people can sit and connect with the Viaduct’s past, present and future
• improve access for visitors to the viaduct so more people can visit and benefit from this unique elevated garden 
• support activities to connect people with nature, heritage and beauty – from walks, talks, performances and exhibitions, to community workshops, and unique experiences, working with community groups who stand to benefit the most from Castlefield Viaduct

Join the Castlefield Viaduct Club

Businesses are invited to show their love for Manchester by joining the Castlefield Viaduct Club, partnering with the National Trust to create a green future for this iconic structure and for the people that live, work and visit our great city.

There are a range of benefits on offer which can be tailored to your company’s needs, as well as the opportunity to donate into an additional Community Connector fund, enabling you to support our grassroots work helping underserved communities across Manchester to access nature for wellbeing.  

Specific sponsorship packages are also available. Get in touch at castlefieldviaduct@nationaltrust.org.uk for more information.