Certain publications, whose names we couldn’t possibly MENtion, often top-and-tail press releases and pass them off as journalism.  Here at MCFly Towers we try (and fail) to be proper (or improper) journalists, and so don’t do that terribly often (BCAG excepted).  Well, now is one of those infrequent occasions.  Below is a press release from Red Rose Forest –

The first phase of a stunning green makeover for Manchester’s Stevenson Square has been completed.  Local environmental regeneration project Red Rose Forest has transformed the Northern Quarter square with new street trees and a ‘green roof’ on top of the disused public toilet.

The project has been delivered this summer – and was able to go ahead after local businesses and residents donated £6,000 through a pioneering internet ‘crowdfunding’ campaign. Funding has also come from Manchester City Council, Transport for Greater Manchester and CityCo.

Cllr Pat Karney, Manchester City Council’s city centre spokesperson, said: “The Northern Quarter has grown a well cultivated reputation as an edgy and vibrant place to eat, drink and shop – but now Stevenson Square will take its place as one of the city’s iconic must-visit destinations all on its own.”

“In just a few months the historic square has been given a full green treatment and a completely new look – only adding to the character long-nurtured by the many local businesses – that will surely attract a wealth of new visitors.”

Pete Stringer, special projects manager at Red Rose Forest, said: “We’re thrilled we have been able to make this project happen this year. Now the leaves on the trees are transforming into their autumn colours it looks particularly stunning.

“This project shows what a massive difference street trees can make to urban areas. But it’s about more than just making places look more attractive and welcoming. Trees can play a crucial role in helping cities like Manchester adapt to climate change, they can reduce air and noise pollution and mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and flooding. They have a central role to play in the life of every modern city.”

Vaughan Allen chief executive at CityCo added: “This scheme has really improved Stevenson Square, attracting more people to this part of the Northern Quarter which is great for the small independent businesses here. The green roof is already becoming a talking point and a fantastic example of what can be done to enhance an area and help green the city.”

The 11 ginko biloba trees have been planted in the square’s newly resurfaced pavement and in the central reservations. The new pavement is made from recycled tyres and is porous allowing the trees to receive the oxygen and water they need to grow.

The green roof which has been installed on top of the old public toilets has been planted up with a range ornamental grasses, as well as sedum, corn cockle, marjoram, thyme, and lobelia.

Red Rose Forest used the Spacehive crowdfunding website in the summer to raise the final £6,000 needed to deliver the project.

More than 80 local businesses and residents pledged to donate case. It was the first greening project in Manchester City Centre to use internet crowdfunding to raise funds.