Spotlight on Statues: The Manchester Arena Terror Attack Memorial

The 'Glade of Light' sculpture is a memorial to the 22 victims of the 2017 terrorist attack.

By Manchester's Finest | 7 July 2020

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This week saw the conclusion of consultations regarding the ‘Glade of Light‘ sculpture – set to be a permanent memorial to the 22 victims of the May 2017 terrorist attack at Manchester Arena.

The design and location of the memorial have been selected after ongoing consultation with the families who lost loved ones on that tragic evening, taking into account their views on making a fitting and lasting tribute.

The memorial is also designed to be a place of quiet contemplation and reflection, for all of those injured in and affected by the events of 22 May 2017.

The design features a white stone ring ‘halo’ which contains all of the names of those who lost their lives set in bronze, with personalised memory capsules containing memories and mementos to be provided by their loved ones held within the stone.

Designed by architects BCA Landscape and Smiling Wolf, the Glade of Light will also feature a planting scheme planned to ensure year-round colour.

The memorial is to be located in the city’s ‘Medieval Quarter’ – between Manchester Cathedral and Chetham’s School of Music, at the foot of Fennel Street, where it meets Victoria Street.