Work to restore landmark Chinatown archway under way

Work has started on the restoration of a landmark archway in Manchester's Chinatown.

The Grade II-listed feature was a gift from Beijing to the people of the city in the mid 1980s.

The gateway into the city's Chinatown is now in need of significant repairs which is estimated to take two years to complete, Manchester City Council said.

Councillor Mandie Shilton Godwin said while the arch will be missed during the work "rest assured it will be worth the wait".

The work is part of a wider regeneration of the Chinatown area.

Improvements have already been carried out earlier this year to make repairs to the large pagoda, new bespoke benches have been installed, and works are planned within the month to make repairs to the smaller pagoda.

Shilton Godwin, executive member for clean air, environment and transport, said the arch has been a focal point for the Chinese community in Manchester for generations and ensuring it remains standing proudly for years to come was a "priority".

"We know the significance this area holds for many of our residents and that's why we are committing to further investment, ensuring that it's not only a top destination for tourists visiting Manchester, but a community that local people feel proud to live and work in."

She added: "During this two-year project we know that the arch will be missed, but rest assured it will be worth the wait."

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