The Mancunian Way: Our A.I. Big Ben

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A vast spherical dome, a largely pedestrianised Oxford Road and what looks like part of Big Ben plonked on top of the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel - that’s what AI is predicting Manchester will look like in 100 years time.

The digital images also include what looks like a new cathedral or mosque and a vast glass dome on Portland Street, a completely flat and grassy Piccadilly Gardens and a very shiny Oxford Road station.

AI tool Midjourney came up with the pictures when the People’s Postcode Lottery asked it to predict what our city will look like in 2123.

Chris Lawson, managing director and senior designer at CK Architectural claims the interpretation gives great modern features to streets and squares. He says introducing a section of greenery 'could give a level of decarbonisation and biodiversity' which he says will 'have to lead future architecture in cityscapes just like this one'.

“Within the Oxford Road image, the elongated glass and mirrored structures do feel like a step into the future," he says. "The curved mirrors would help bring sunlight and energy to typically shaded places in cities, allowing energy capture and more growth to become intertwined into city life.

"This is of course not to forget reflecting and enhancing the exciting historic buildings that make the fabric of this city. Creating a solid harmony of modern and traditional architecture will be the future of most major UK cities.”

I can’t say I’m totally convinced by the pictures myself. Not least because I think fans of Great Abel - the town hall’s