Blackley Vale presents both a challenge and opportunity to the Irk Valley Project and the residents of North Manchester. The site formerly housed a mill and buildings and was subject to land fill in the 1960s. Some landscaping work has been undertaken, and a path network established. From this basic start, we have the opportunity for Blackley Vale to play a key role as a local, accessible green space.

The link to the communities in and around Crumpsall will be developed through the “Walk this Way” improvement program. The aim of this program is to open forgotten public footpaths and undertake improvements to the path network where necessary. The increase in access opportunities will give the local communities of Blackley and Crumpsall different routes through Blackley Vale area.

Some of the objectives for the development of Blackley Vale are:
• To create a safe, welcoming and clearly defined area of natural green space for local people
• To create high quality, well defined access routes
• To establish appropriate rest areas and seating
• To provide high quality interpretation and signage