Redevelopment

Redevelopment

Long before the rest of the school was demolished, redevelopment was in progress along Ardwick Green North. The site of the former school, once cleared, was developed into a residential Housing Association estate that also incorporated the land on which other old properties had once stood. The only reminder of the school’s former existence is the name “St Gregory’s Road”, which runs off Higher Ardwick at about the spot where the school’s main entrance once stood, and winds its way through the area of the old school until it emerges at Durling Street.

As for the school’s former playing fields, bounded by Union Street and Temperance Street, these were eventually converted into 5-a-side Astroturf soccer pitches, together with the construction of a clubhouse which featured a reception area, changing rooms, bar, balcony and function room. A substantial car park provides adequate off-road parking for motorists.

Strolling along St Gregory’s Road, Higher Ardwick and Ardwick Green North recently and speaking to some of the residents, it soon became clear that little was known about the previous existence of the school. Much has changed. All the old buildings have gone, including the Church Inn. Ardwick Green Park, though different, is tidy and neat and has pleasant and safe playing facilities for children under nine, together with a nearby picnic area with tables and seats. The park was a Green Flag Award winner a few years ago, “the mark of a quality park or green space”. But, as in life generally, nothing stays the same. Decline, change, evolution and progress; these forces are forever ongoing. 

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