Building meaningful community connections in Gorton

Warden’s delivery of public realm improvements in Gorton, Greater Manchester, also delivered a win for local school children and community groups.

Commissioned by Manchester City Council and completed in 2025, this ambitious transformation created a vibrant new public square adjacent to Gorton Market, enhancing connectivity, social inclusion, and the local economy.

The flexible public space – designed to host markets, performances, and events – has revitalised the area and encouraged year-round community use. Imaginative play features, integrated lighting, and green infrastructure have combined to create a safe, biodiverse and inviting environment.

A standout initiative as part of our social value activity was a visit to St James’ Primary School, where Warden engaged young children through interactive activities and storytelling, helping to challenge stereotypes in construction and sow the seeds of future careers.

The team also collaborated with the Gorton Men’s Sheds group, donating tools and materials to support community-led woodworking and wellbeing activities. Apprenticeship and training opportunities, sustainable transport, and wellbeing support were embedded throughout the build.

Social value summary

Strengthening communities

Warden delivered meaningful social impact through partnerships and local engagement:

• A LEGO-based construction session at St James’ Primary School engaged 15 children and challenged gender stereotypes in construction, using stories and hands-on learning.
• 42 pallets and a DeWalt drill were donated to the Gorton Men’s Sheds group, supporting their community projects including raised planters and a polytunnel.
• Tailored careers advice and support were offered to Gorton jobseekers at the local Job Centre, encouraging access to roles within Warden and beyond.
• Support was also extended to the Manchester Congolese Organisation (MACO), offering youth resources and an invitation to the public realm’s opening event.
• Warden’s Employee Assistance Programme was made available to all staff, offering 24/7 wellbeing, legal and counselling support.

Driving environmental responsibility

A range of sustainability-led actions underpinned the Gorton delivery:

• 3,520 miles were travelled using low or zero-emission vehicles, including Warden’s all-electric Mini, helping reduce carbon impact on the project.
• An additional 122 car miles were saved through car sharing and efficient transport planning.
• Over 6,000 kg of waste was successfully diverted from landfill.
• Locally sourced materials and labour supported both the economy and Warden’s green supply chain goals.

Empowering local employment and skills

Warden’s commitment to inclusive growth and learning opportunities was demonstrated through:

• Two new local jobs were created via the supply chain, surpassing the original employment target.
• Quantity surveying apprentice Tom Shepherd completed the full duration of the project, gaining real-world experience in procurement, cost tracking, and stakeholder coordination.
• Apprenticeship targets were reallocated when safety concerns prevented further placements, ensuring value was still delivered through community-focused alternatives.