CyanLines
Walking and cycling network in Greater Manchester, England
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
CyanLines is an initiative to create a 100-mile (160 km) network of parks, rivers, canals, and walkways across the cities of Manchester and Salford in England. It was launched in September 2025 with four initial routes totalling 15.5 miles (25 km).
100 mi (160 km) (proposed and approximate)
| CyanLines | |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.5 mi (25 km) (as of November 2025) 100 mi (160 km) (proposed and approximate) |
| Location | Manchester and Salford, England |
| Use | Walking, cycling |
| Season | All year |
| Website | cyanlines |
The project's stated aims include linking existing green and blue spaces—such as Castlefield Viaduct, Mayfield Park, and the River Irwell—with new routes and infrastructure to support access to nature, active travel, and ecological connectivity.
Origin and aim
CyanLines was co-founded by Tom Bloxham, chairman of the property development company Urban Splash, and Pete Swift, chief executive of the architecture practice Planit.[1] The name refers to the project's focus on integrating blue (water) and green (natural) spaces. The initiative was launched on 10 September 2025 at Aviva Studios in Manchester,[2] with involvement from Manchester City Council[3] and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.[4]
The aim is to repurpose underused urban areas to create routes incorporating biodiversity and public space. Proposed connections include established sites such as Castlefield Viaduct, Mayfield Park, and New Islington Marina, along with smaller parks and planned developments including Victoria North and Holt Town.[5]
Partners
Public-sector involved in the CyanLines initiative include Manchester City Council, Salford City Council,[6] and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. These organisations contribute to the project's strategic direction and its alignment with regional planning and policy frameworks.
Private-sector participants include developers and design firms such as Urban Splash, Planit, Allied London, Bruntwood, Far East Consortium, Landsec, Property Alliance Group, and Renaker.[5] Their roles relate to development activity and design work associated with areas included in the proposed network.
In the charitable sector, the National Trust and Factory International are listed as supporters of the initiative.[1] Their involvement relates to cultural, environmental, and community‑focused aspects of the project.
Funding and governance
CyanLines receives funding from a combination of public and philanthropic bodies. Confirmed contributors include Natural England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund's Nature Towns and Cities programme,[5] which support projects related to green and blue infrastructure and community‑based environmental activity.
As of September 2025, CyanLines is in the process of establishing a dedicated not-for-profit organisation, potentially a community interest company or charity, to manage governance, broaden partnerships, and secure long-term funding for the initiative.[2]
Pilot routes
The first four CyanLines routes, launched in Manchester city centre and stretching a total of 15.5 miles (25 km), include:[7]
- CL1 – Victoria station and NOMA to Queens Park – the Irk Valley explorer
- CL2 – Mayfield, New Islington and Ancoats Loop – from marina to new city park
- CL3 – St Peter's Square to Whitworth Park – walking the knowledge corridor
- CL4 – Irwell and Castlefield Loop – Romans, rivers, and a park in the sky
