MANCHESTER may soon have it's own tree top adventure attraction, according to new council plans.
Generated income will be pumped back into improvement works around the park
A search will begin in the coming months to find an operator interested in bringing the outdoor attraction - featuring perilous zip-lines, rope ladders and tree top swings - to Heaton Park, following discussions with the Forestry Commission.
It is thought a forest feature will complement existing attractions, including golf and a boating lake, and encourage visitors to further explore Heaton’s extensive 640 acre woodland. An initial feasibility study indicates the site would only require a few acres, with generated income pumped back into improvement works around the park.
As part of the park’s long term vision, council investment - alongside Historic England - has already funded significant refurbishments on Heaton Hall, while the council's Clean City fund has been used to improve footpaths, bins and benches.
Heaton ParkWhilst subject to planning permission – including a site specific biodiversity study and assessment of associated visitor needs such as parking - Cllr Rosa Battle, Manchester City Council’s executive member for leisure and culture, is positive about the proposal.
“Heaton Park is a priceless and well-loved asset that generations of Manchester people have enjoyed and major investment in the last year is helping to improve this major green space for generations to come.
“We are committed to exploring new ways of improving the offer to a wide range of visitors to Heaton and further develop the park as an essential destination, whilst at the same time improving the existing well-loved amenities.
“One such way is to invite operators of tree-based adventure activities to put forward proposals for Heaton and we look forward to receiving imaginative responses in the coming months.''
For information visit Heaton Park’s new website
