A decision on the redevelopment plans for half of Regent Retail Park, initially expected in November, has now been delayed until February. The Salford Liberal Democrats, who have campaigned tirelessly against the current proposal, continue to call for a development that genuinely reflects the needs and desires of local residents and puts people before profit.
John Grant, Chair of Salford Liberal Democrats, stated, “Our opposition has been clear and consistent from the outset. We launched our ‘Demand Better for Regent Retail Park’ campaign nearly two years ago to advocate for a balanced and community-focused development rather than a ‘concrete jungle’ with ten apartment blocks and 3,300 new units. We have delivered four pieces of literature over this period on this issue to residents in Ordsall and the Quays, reaching over 7,000 households in our most recent distribution.”
The campaign has seen significant community engagement. Two separate petitions have garnered hundreds of signatures, and we have actively participated in community events, speaking on panels and engaging through online forums. “The level of support we’ve seen shows how passionate residents are about preserving and enhancing the character of their community,” Grant added.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Paul Heilbron emphasized the need for sustainable, service-oriented development. “We don’t need thousands more unaffordable apartments in an already densely populated area with traffic and parking challenges. Our campaign has contributed to hundreds of residents to submitting written objections, raising their voices in opposition to these plans. We believe any redevelopment should include essential shops, services, and green spaces to serve the existing community.” Our three key objectives are to see adequate affordable housing worked into the plans, a public park for the whole community to enjoy rather than the gimmick pocket park in the current plans and comprehensive measures to offset the already awful parking & traffic issues that blight the retail park and its vicinity”.
The Salford Liberal Democrats have actively engaged with residents, submitted formal objections on the planning portal, and will bring the community’s concerns to local planning committees. Their commitment to a more balanced development is reflected in ongoing dialogue with residents, press coverage, and a dedicated online presence. For more information, visit: Demand Better for Regent Retail Park Campaign.
Meanwhile, Labour councillors in Ordsall, alongside local MP Rebecca Long Bailey, have called for the application to be rejected: https://salford.media/ordsall-councillors-call-for-rejection-of-plans-to-demolish-regent-retail-park/
