Multi-service hub moves forward in Gorton

An image has been revealed of a proposed health and community hub in Gorton, ahead of a consultation event taking place later today.

Discussions are ongoing around what services will be available at the hub, to be built on Garrett Way, but centre is expected to co-locate a mix of public sector organisations, including Manchester City Council, health and social care partners, and housing and community service provider, One Manchester.

A walk-in event will be held at Gorton Library, Garratt Way, Manchester M18 8HE, today from 12pm-6pm, and on Thursday 27 June from 3pm-9pm.

The proposal will see the current Gorton Library moved into the centre, although the existing library will remain open until construction is completed.

The demolition of the vacant properties on Garratt Way, formerly Eastland Homes offices and a former pub, is already under way to make way for the hub.

A planning application is expected to be submitted in July, with a start on site planned by late 2019 and completion expected in spring 2021.

Morgan Sindall has been appointed contractor, while IBI Group is the architect.

Cllr Bev Craig, Manchester City Council’s executive member for adult health and wellbeing, said: “An approach like this is the embodiment of our belief that you can’t just treat health and social care in isolation – as all the other key elements of life like housing, having a good job, and having fulfilling things to do in our free time  are all interconnected with our wellbeing.

“We want to help Manchester people live happier and healthier lives. Accessing services should be easy and joined up, and that’s why we are making public services like health and care work more closely, to provide better support to help people when they need it, to stay fit and well, access good quality jobs and enjoy all the rich social and cultural elements of where they live.”

The hub in Gorton sits alongside several regeneration projects taking place in the area. Manchester’s Housing Investment Fund has backed the development of more than 400 homes, including 183 homes for sale at Connell Gardens in West Gorton and 67 homes for sale and rent at Gorton Monastery.

According to the council, a further 350 homes have planning permission and are expected to be completed by 2020, including Great Places’ Arkwright Place scheme on Melland Road, where 131 homes will be built for sale, rent and shared ownership.

Alongside this, One Manchester is currently already on site with its Kingfisher Gardens development in Gorton, and plans for a further 150 homes are under way.