RYEBANK FIELDS PLANNING APPLICATION APPROVED
The sun sets and the moon rises over Ryebank Fields on 24th September 2026 — the day Manchester City Council approved our community-led planning application to preserve Ryebank Fields as a Community Woodland and Meadow. This is a significant victory for Ryebank Fields and for everyone who has worked so hard to protect it. Our vision is centred on nature, wildlife, community, recreation and climate resilience, providing a positive future for this much-loved green space. But the battle is not over yet. The MMU/development partners’ planning application has not yet been heard by Manchester City Council’s Planning Committee, and it could still be approved. The future of Ryebank Fields has therefore not yet been finally settled. For today, though, we should celebrate what has been achieved. Thank you to everyone who has supported Ryebank Fields throughout this campaign — by donating, volunteering, submitting representations, attending meetings, sharing our message and standing with us. Ryebank Fields stays green. 🌳💚 Today is a reminder of what local communities can achieve when they come together to protect a place they love. And our thanks and solidarity go to everyone fighting to Save Our Green Spaces.
Ryebank Fields - A Green Space Worth Protecting
Manchester City Council, Manchester Metropolitan University and their development partners often refer to the site as "Ryebank Road" or simply "Ryebank". Locally, it has long been known as Ryebank Fields — historically Ryebank Playing Fields. That name reflects its history, character and importance to the surrounding communities. Ryebank Fields is not an empty parcel of land awaiting development. It is a much-loved community woodland and meadow and one of South Manchester's most significant rewilded green spaces.
Ryebank Fields matters
- One of South Manchester's largest rewilded green spaces
- 120 homes are proposed on the site
- 1,400+ trees could be lost
- 25,000+ residents live within a 15-minute walk
We believe Ryebank Fields should remain a community woodland and meadow — protected for nature, climate, health and future generations.
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