A major public consultation designed to shape the future of the historic heart of Chinatown in Manchester city centre has been launched.
Council bosses say they want to replace the damaged pagoda, on Faulkner Street's junction with Nicholas Street, with a new structure that will 'celebrate Chinese heritage and provide a community focal point'.
Chinatown's iconic pagoda was damaged in a vandal attack in June this year. Safety fences were smashed in the early hours attack and four ornamental statues were stolen, which were imported originally from China. It prompted the council to close the popular meeting place on safety grounds.
Ryan Parsons, 27, a qualified chef from Bangor, Wales, was later sentenced after he pleaded guilty to theft and damaging property, with a court told his attack to the landmark pagoda had caused damage in the region of £200,000.
The public are now being asked by Manchester city council for their views and opinions in an online survey designed to shape future ideas and plans. The central car park could also be changed, it's understood.
The council said the pagoda and car park have been a 'central hub' for the Chinatown and wider community for many years.
The pagoda stands next to the huge Chinatown arch - a renowned tourist attraction with it's three tiers of red, gold, blue and green featuring ornate, carved dragons and other symbols alongside 'China Town Manchester' text.
Manchester's Chinatown is the second largest in the UK, said the council.
In a statement published online, Manchester city council said: "First established over 100 years ago, Manchester’s Chinatown is the second largest in the UK and third biggest in Europe, home to an array of shops and restaurants located in the heart of the city centre.
"For many years the Pagoda and carpark have been a central hub for the Chinatown community, and we want to hear your ideas to help us shape the future of this historic area.
"We want to replace the damaged pagoda with a new structure, that will celebrate Chinese heritage and provide a community focal point. Your thoughts and ideas are important to help redesign this key city centre location."
In the council's Chinatown pagoda and car park survey - available here - the public are asked a series of questions including whether the car park should be used for community activities, additional seating or events.
Those taking part are also asked what they would like to see replace the damaged pagoda and how they would like the car park to be used in the future. The survey closes on November 16.
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