Manchester Arena memorial feature opens to public

The Glade of Light memorial to those who lost their lives in the 22 May 2017 Manchester terror attack will be accessible to the public from 5 January 2022.

Work has taken place since March last year to create the garden space which honours those affected by the attack. Now, with work concluding, the fences around the site are being taken down and people will be able to visit to pay their respects. An official opening event for the memorial is planned for spring 2022, ahead of the fifth anniversary.  

The center of The Glade of Light is a white marble ‘halo’ bearing the names of the 22 people who lost their lives. Families of those who lost loved ones have been able to place personalised memory capsules, containing mementos and messages, which are embedded inside the halo. They have also been given the opportunity to visit privately before the memorial opened.  

Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We will never forget those whose lives were lost on 22 May 2017. They already had a permanent place in the hearts of Manchester people. Now they have a lasting memorial in the heart of our city.  

“The Glade of Light is a beautiful tribute to them and somewhere which will also have profound meaning for everyone affected by the attack. We hope the memorial site will be a place of peace and comfort, standing as a reminder that love is stronger than hate.”