Salford City Council is set to move forward with the initial ‘£2.5m – 29 Acre’ phase of the proposed 250 acre Salford Crescent masterplan, a comprehensive regeneration initiative aimed at transforming the area into a vibrant new city district. This ambitious plan, developed in partnership with the University of Salford and The English Cities Fund, is set to dramatically enhance the local environment and economy over the next decade.
The councils planning committee will meet next week to decide upon the application which has been given recommendation to pass by officers.
The first phase focuses on a pedestrian-friendly infrastructure project called Salford Rise, designed to enhance connectivity between the northern and southern sections of the Crescent area. This 220-meter tree-lined route will feature a 90-meter elevated parkland bridge over Frederick Road, providing a vital link that promotes sustainable transport and community cohesion.
Crescent Innovation North – MuseThe application reference number 23/81238/OUTEIA on the city council’s planning portal, was submitted over 12 months ago.
Key elements of the Crescent masterplan include:
- Health and Innovation District: This zone aims to leverage the university’s research capabilities to drive innovation and economic growth.
- Parks and River: Enhancements to green spaces such as Peel Park will encourage outdoor activities and improve the area’s aesthetic appeal.
- UoS Peel Park Campus: The university campus will see significant upgrades, including new state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and research.
- Transport Hub: A new multi-modal transport hub will improve accessibility and reduce traffic congestion.
- Adelphi Village: This area will provide a mix of residential and commercial spaces, creating a vibrant community.
- The Crescent: The central area of the development will offer a range of amenities, including retail, leisure, and cultural spaces).
A report says that sustainability is a core aspect of the masterplan, with initiatives such as extensive tree planting, rain gardens, and energy-efficient buildings. The project aims to achieve carbon neutrality and create a green, eco-friendly urban environment.
Additionally, the masterplan emphasizes social value by working closely with local communities to address challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the benefits of regeneration are widely shared. This includes creating jobs, improving skills, and enhancing public spaces around the area.
As part of the long-term vision, the development will include over 3,000 new homes, 1 million square feet of innovation and collaboration space, and 1 million square feet for offices, retail, and leisure. These efforts will make Salford a model for modern urban development, blending historic preservation with cutting-edge infrastructure.
For more detailed information about the masterplan and ongoing updates, you can visit the Salford City Council’s official page on the Crescent development framework and the dedicated Crescent Salford website, additionally you can read the full planning officer report.
