A lot can happen in 25 years. Compared to 1998, the Manchester we exist in is radically different.

That begs the question, what will Manchester look like another 25 years in the future? fbe Greater Manchester invites you to embark on a speculative journey into the Manchester of 2050.

We'll explore the physical and social architecture of a future Manchester, contemplating its aesthetic, functionality, and the pivotal role it will play in the lives of its inhabitants. Will the city adhere to a path of technological advancements, sustainable practices, and sociocultural evolutions? And how will these decisions impact the day-to-day life and the overarching socio-economic framework?

Join us as three established visionaries – Niall Alcock, Director at Deloitte; Matthew Burl, Director at Buttress; and Suzy Jones, Director of the Future at Urban Splash – present insights into their prospective views of Manchester in the year 2050. We’ll explore concepts that consider architectural advancement, urban planning, and sustainable development, and how they all converge towards a future where technology and tradition intertwine.

Following the presentations, our panel, comprised of Ruth Hannan, Director of People’s Powerhouse, and Richard Brook, Director of Research at Lancaster School of Architecture, will challenge and delve deeper into these visions, critically dissecting and debating the different outlooks.

Joshi Hermann, Editor at The Mill, will chair the event, guiding both presenters and the panel through a structured yet open dialogue.