In his talk Duncan Paybody explores how Mayfield Park in Manchester exemplifies the future of urban green space. As lead landscape architect, Duncan emphasises the park‑first vision that celebrates nature, local heritage, and climate resilience. He details how the previously hidden River Medlock was uncovered, how salvaged industrial materials were creatively repurposed, and how the park’s naturalistic floodplain design enabled it to withstand a one‑in‑25‑year flood with paths and play areas remaining functional. Horticulturist Nigel Dunnett hailed Mayfield as “an inspiring benchmark for the park of the future,” praising the project for redefining what a modern city‑centre park can be.