Memorial design competition launched as Manchester mourns its 22 dead

As Manchester comes together to remember the 22 people killed and over 130 more injured in the terror attack on Manchester Arena on 22 May 2017, the City Council has invited artists, designers and architects to put forward proposals for a permanent memorial to victims.

Located outside Manchester Cathedral on Fennel Street, close to where the attack took place, the brief says that the memorial must 'create a tranquil environment for reflection' and 'celebrate the lives of those who were killed'.

The memorial will be 'a reminder of the unified community spirit, the triumph of love over hatred'

Malcolm Press, chair of the Manchester Memorial Advisory Group, said: “The views of the families who have lost loved ones have been, and will continue to be, right at the heart of our work.

“Getting to this point has involved a careful process which we have sought to make as thorough and inclusive as possible to ensure an appropriate and enduring memorial. This is an important milestone on that journey.”

The memorial will create a sombre focus point for the overhaul of the city's Medieval Quarter, which is currently undergoing wider regeneration which will see new public realm and green space created along the River Irwell by landscape architects PlanitIE.

Manchester City Council Leader, Sir Richard Leese, said: “This memorial will be dedicated to those who lost their lives, a place where families can remember their loved ones and others can pay their respects. Manchester will never forget.

“It will also be a memorial to all those affected by the attack and a reminder of the unified community spirit, the triumph of love over hatred, which characterised the city’s response to the terrible events of 22 May 2017. 

“We look forward to hearing the ideas of designers and will continue to consult with the bereaved families as plans progress.”