A new public consultation aimed at capturing locals’ views on plans for Irwell River Park will launch on 23 September.
The plans for extensive development along the River Irwell include an active travel route stretching five miles from Salford Quays to the city centre, improving pedestrian and cycle access across the city.
The original Irwell River Park scheme began in 2008 with the goal of creating an active travel route between the City Centre and The Quays, along the River Irwell. The ambitious plans were developed in partnership with Manchester and Trafford Councils.
Work on the project has taken place over the years as opportunities have arisen, resulting in a range of benefits. Access to and the green space itself at Crescent Meadows was improved, as well as the river side path alongside the Urban Splash development at Springfield Lane. Work also led to securing funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to refurbish Peel Park and the transformation of Riverside at Chapel Wharf
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Through the scheme, residents have been able to take advantage of an improved network of accessible paths close to the river through New Bailey and the creation of attractive and well used public spaces within The Quays.
Other elements to be completed, have seen better connectivity between Spinningfields and New Bailey via a new bridge connection, as well as a new riverside space and pedestrian/cycling footbridge connecting with Aviva Studios, which opened in 2023 and work on improving a section of towpath beneath Stephenson’s historic rail bridge.
Following completion of the initial work, Salford City Council’s ambition has remained to further deliver projects alongside the river.
Councillor Mike McCusker, Lead Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development at Salford City Council, said: “The original Irwell River Park development is seen as an important part of Salford’s regeneration story.
This refreshed strategy for Irwell River Park is so important. It will focus on making the River Irwell attractive, safe and easily accessible from surrounding neighbourhoods and by public transport. Also, connecting local neighbourhoods with the rich history, culture, public spaces and parks that surround the river.
Working with developers and other organisations along the river, our aim will be to use the strategy to seek funding opportunities and deliver positive improvement as well as creating a place that is resilient to climate change and that encourages nature to thrive.
This will be very much an asset for local residents, so it is important that they engage with the consultation process and I’d encourage people to share their views on the proposals.”
This consultation will focus on a new strategy that has recently been drafted for Irwell River Park in Salford and plans to improve access to the river.
The six-week long consultation, will invite feedback from the public, via an online survey, which can be accessed via the Salford City Council website https://www.salford.gov.uk/ from Monday 23 September.
There will also be three in-person drop in sessions at venues in this part of the city.
These public drop-in sessions will take place on:
- Tuesday 8 October, 4pm to 7pm at Salford Watersports Centre
- Thursday 10 October, 4pm to 7pm at Sacred Trinity Church
- Saturday 26 October, 11.30am to 3pm at Salford Museum and Art Gallery
Following public consultation, the strategy will then be amended and finalised. Approval of the finished strategy by the council is expected early in 2025.
