Overview

The Manchester Metro Link is the most successful light rail system in the UK carrying nearly 20 million passengers each year. As part of a multi-million pound improvement plan to improve passenger facilities, Fabric Architecture were approached by Laing O’Rourke, part of the consortiumMPACT.

The design intention was to create an identifiable visual icon at the stop and to have the canopies glow with light and colour. Lighting is key and consequently was one of the top requirements. It was important for the stop to feel safe and bright for passengers as well as look striking from a distance.

Two structures were specified to cover the In and Out bound passenger areas along the platforms at the Metro Sports City Stop. The 2 canopy structures cover 450sqm and 400sqm respectively.

Fabric Architecture proposed a Double Skin canopy. The top layer is a white Silicone Coated Glass fabric known as Solar Glass Weave. Fabric Architecture helped pioneer this product and have been recommending it given it has a life expectancy of 30 plus years. It is completely recyclable and is has a light transmission of 40%. The bottom layer of the canopy envelope is a white PVC mesh. This is a very thoughtful canopy: The mesh was created so that maintenance could be done with ease.

Photos to come Summer 2011 upon project completion.

Architect: DEK Architects
Main Contractor: Laing O'Rourke