Parks and Green Spaces: Manchester, Gorton

Opened the debate

Afzal Khan highlighted the significance of parks and green spaces in his constituency, noting that they serve as meeting points for diverse cultures. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these spaces became crucial for outdoor activities with a 30% increase in park visitors in Manchester. He emphasised historical importance, citing Alexandra Park's role in suffrage movements and cultural events like the Rock Against Racism carnival and the Manchester Caribbean carnival. Khan also mentioned Platt Fields Park’s significance to the Asian community and its support from local volunteers. Other green spaces such as Birchfields Park, Highfield Country Park, Nutsford Vale, and several smaller parks were noted for their biodiversity and community projects. The MP criticised austerity measures that have reduced local government funding by £420 million since 2010 and led to a national loss of £190 million in parks budgets over five years. Khan praised the Mayor’s green spaces fund but called for additional national investment to maintain and enhance these critical public resources.

Government Response

Neil O'Brien acknowledged Afzal Khan's advocacy for green spaces in his constituency. He highlighted the high level of accessible green space within Manchester, Gorton and praised community groups that have contributed over 11,000 hours to maintain parks. The Minister emphasised government commitments to retaining beauty through national planning policies, encouraging the creation of appropriate green spaces in new developments. Funding initiatives included £16.3 million for parks between 2017 and 2019, with continued support from the £9 million levelling-up parks fund announced in the spending review. The Levelling-Up and Regeneration Bill aims to create attractive green spaces and access to nature through various measures like compulsory purchase orders and pavement dining extensions. The Minister highlighted public health benefits of green spaces, such as reduced anxiety and improved psychological health, affirming the government's intent to enhance these community facilities.