The Executive of Manchester City Council met on Wednesday 14 October 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including progress on the Our Manchester Strategy, housing development, and the future of children's social care. Key decisions included the approval of the Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027-2032 and the commencement of public consultation on proposed changes to conservation areas.

Our Manchester Progress Update

The Executive received an update on the progress of the Our Manchester Strategy 2025-35. Councillor Garry Bridges, Leader of the Council, highlighted Manchester's selection to host the G20 Summit in November 2027, an event expected to attract up to 10,000 attendees and provide significant economic benefits. The city has also been shortlisted for the European Capital of Innovation 2027 award, reflecting its commitment to innovation. The report noted the success of the 2026 BRIT Awards, which generated £5 million in direct economic benefit and will return to Manchester in February 2027. Plans for the transformation of Piccadilly Gardens are set to commence in November 2026, aiming to increase green space and improve public safety.

Councillor John Leech raised concerns about the disruption and security arrangements for the G20 Summit, while Councillor Astrid Johnson inquired about the age profile of residents in the Chorlton Baths development and parking availability.

The Executive noted the report.

Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027-2032

The Executive approved the Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027–2032, which aims to ensure children receive the right support and care as close to home as possible. The strategy outlines nine pledges focused on preventing unnecessary entry into care, supporting reunification, increasing local family-based and specialist homes, and strengthening provider partnerships.

Councillor Julie Reid, Executive Member for Early Years, Children and Young People, explained that the strategy addresses challenges such as Manchester's growing population, high levels of deprivation, and increasing housing pressures, which contribute to the demand for social care services. As of September 2026, Manchester had 1,254 looked-after children, with placement stability remaining a concern. The strategy proposes a shift towards a more preventative and relational commissioning model, integrating early help, family support, social care, education, health, and housing services.

Councillor Leech welcomed the strategy and sought clarification on how the Council identifies suitable accommodation for emergency arrangements and how it plans to reduce the number of children entering care.

The Executive approved the strategy, authorised the Strategic Director of Children and Education Services to finalise and implement the annual delivery plan, and approved the proposed governance and assurance arrangements.

Conservation Area Review

The Executive approved the commencement of a formal public consultation on proposed new conservation areas and amendments to existing conservation area boundaries. The comprehensive review, undertaken as part of the Local Plan review, assessed Manchester's 35 existing conservation areas and identified seven new areas for potential designation: Ardwick Green, Didsbury Village, Burnage Garden Village, Chorlton-upon-Medlock, New Mills, Fallowfield, Spath Road and Victoria Avenue, and Moon Grove.

Councillor Mandie Shilton Godwin, Executive Member for Clean Air, Environment and Transport, highlighted that conservation area designations recognise an area's distinctive character and promote high-quality design. The review, conducted in accordance with national legislation and Historic England guidance, recommended no changes to 18 existing conservation areas, while amendments were proposed for 17. The consultation process will involve public engagement events, online materials, and direct notification to affected properties.

The Executive noted the review and its recommendations, and approved the public consultation.

Housing Development - Delivery Update

The Executive noted the significant progress made towards the headline target of delivering 36,000 new homes, including 10,000 affordable homes, by 2032. In the financial year 2025/26, 4,766 new homes were completed, including over 900 affordable homes, the highest level of affordable housing delivery since 1998/99. Since 2022, 2,430 affordable homes have been completed, representing 24.3% of the target.

Councillor Gavin White, Executive Member for Housing and Regeneration, reported that Manchester's affordable housing programme is less reliant on the private sector, with 72% of affordable homes delivered through grant-funded schemes in 2025/26. The report highlighted the completion of 50 social rent apartments for older residents at the Chorlton Baths development and 12 family homes in Higher Blackley through the Council's Project 500. The Council's Empty Homes Team has successfully brought over 700 long-term empty homes back into use since its launch in 2024.

Councillor Marcus Johns queried the types of homes being built in future reports, while Councillor Sian Astley sought clarification on the viability assessment process for affordable housing requirements and noted that affordable housing had not always been a priority for the Council. Councillor Leech asked if private developers could be required to provide a similar level of affordable homes as the Council.

The Executive noted the report.

Wythenshawe Civic Regeneration LLP Business Plan and Asset Management Plan

The Executive noted the progress made on the regeneration of Wythenshawe Civic Centre and approved the refreshed Wythenshawe Civic Regeneration LLP Business Plan. The LLP has moved into the delivery phase of its regeneration programme, focusing on asset management, residential development, sustainability, and community benefits. The Asset Management Business Plan aims to transform the centre into a diverse destination incorporating retail, food and beverage, culture, workspace, and residential development. Significant progress has been made on the Local Regeneration Fund works, including the Cultural Hub, Food Hall, workspace, and public realm. Planning permission has been granted for the first phase of residential development, comprising 425 social rent homes.

Councillor Astley inquired about the specifics of the improved night-time offer and potential plans for a market. Councillor Tim Whiston welcomed the proposals for the Civic Centre and the benefits they would bring to local residents.

The Executive noted the progress and approved the refreshed Business Plan.

Other Decisions

The Executive also approved the commencement of public consultation on proposed new conservation areas and amendments to existing conservation areas. They noted the progress on housing development delivery and the Wythenshawe Civic Regeneration LLP's business and asset management plans. Decisions were also made regarding the Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027-2032, including approving its implementation and governance arrangements.

The meeting also included a tribute to Councillor Pat Karney, with a minute's silence observed in his memory. The minutes of the previous meeting on 16 September 2026 were approved.

The Executive agreed to exclude the press and public from discussions on specific items related to the Wythenshawe Civic Regeneration LLP Business Plan and Asset Management plan (Part B) and housing repairs insourcing and recommissioning (Part B), citing the need to consider exempt information.