Manchester .. Fletcher Moss Gardens
I took a train to East Didsbury for Fletcher Moss Botanic Gardens. I got lost and spent 45 minutes getting to the place but it was worth it. This small gem of a place is nestled on a hillside overlooking tennis courts (lawn tennis) and a small pond. It has lots of flowers and it was crammed with plants and trees but the rock paved paths were skilfully designed to provide nice views of the garden. There is an adjoining meadow with wildflowers (in season) and a wetlands area with streams, bogs and raised timber walkways. The total effect is of a small botanic garden in a nature reserve .. well tended garden but not manicured, very much in the English style.
I have been reading about Japanese gardens and Fletcher Moss certainly does not follow the rule of 'less is more'. However, it does seem to fulfil the Japanese concept of the stroll garden ('acts as a journey whose engaging snares lure you along a mysterious path that twists and turns to place you before the next unexpected but carefully planned delight') The Lure of the Japanese Garden by A Main. 2002.
Manchester Curve (Pedestrian Bridge)
I was taking photos in the area around Manchester Piccadilly Station and and wanted to document the very positive changes .. the forecourt used to be a mess ; now traffic is limited and it is all pedestrian friendly. A new pedestrian bridge over London Road (eventfully leading to Canal Street) means that you no longer have to battle with traffic. A security guard standing at the bridge told me I could not photograph it .. because it was private property. He drew the analogy that it was like someone coming to a private home and taking photographs .. and I wouldn't like that would I? I told him how ridiculous I thought this was especially because I was standing on public land at the time.
I went to the City Hall Planning Department to find out who owned the bridge. It is apparently private property which belongs to Argent .. the bridge has not been adopted by the City of Manchester. The very helpful ladies in the Planning Department agreed with me that it was a silly policy and apologised on behalf of the city.
BBC Manchester article says:
The main pedestrian connection into Piccadilly Place will be a stunning new bridge spanning London Road from Piccadilly Station. This bridge will take pedestrians into the heart of the site and provide further access into the City Centre along Aytoun Street and Portland Street. Developers Argent have been working with Manchester City Council and GMPTE, who are the joint landowners.
The fine print
Date of travel : June 2008
East Didsbury is a 13 minute ride by frequent service from either Manchester PIccadilly or Manchester Oxford Road station.
More information : Fletcher Moss Gardens
More information : Piccadilly Place development