Plans for huge transformation along banks of Manchester Ship Canal move forward

It aims to create more homes and new builds for businesses, and could be a boost to Greater Manchester's economy by creating thousands of jobs

A huge plan to transform Salford and Trafford has taken a step forward.

Known as the Western Gateway mayoral development zone (MDZ), the scheme spans across the two boroughs in a corridor along the Manchester Ship Canal - with areas on both sides of the water set for massive changes.

It aims to create more homes and new builds for businesses, and could be a boost to Greater Manchester's economy by creating thousands of jobs.

The project is led by Salford and Trafford councils in partnership with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), and is one of six key growth locations in the region identified as places for large-scale development.

These areas include Eccles, Port Salford, Stretford town centre, Trafford Waters, and elsewhere. The plans won the backing of Salford council’s cabinet team during a key gathering at Salford Civic Centre on June 10.

The plans were also discussed at Salford council's cabinet in January. Salford’s mayor said in a statement that the work will bring huge benefits for the city.

“This is a long-term plan and together with our colleagues at Trafford council and the GMCA, it means we can secure significant infrastructure investment for this part of the region, while also creating a fairer, greener, healthier and more inclusive city.

“It is vital we continue our plans to regenerate and revitalise areas across Salford, which will provide the infrastructure to create thriving, well-connected communities with green spaces and much improved transport links.

“With investment from public and private sector partners and government, we can create much-needed homes and high-quality jobs that local people deserve.”

In Salford, sites in the proposed MDZ could create more than 5,000 new jobs, up to 511,000 square meters of employment space, and pump £6.4m into the city through business rates.

A number of the sites are relying on future upgrades to infrastructure, including improvements to roads. The MDZ proposal still needs approval from Trafford council’s executive on June 16, and the GMCA on June 27.

In a statement last week, Trafford council’s executive member for economy and regeneration, Coun Liz Patel, said: "In Trafford, the focus ranges from Stretford town centre, and the Civic Quarter, to New Carrington, Partington and Trafford Waters.

“It will bring together the exciting regeneration and developments already under way, creating thousands of new eco-friendly homes and quality jobs.

"We will see a whole range of opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors, to make the most of our vibrant, well-connected locations and great transport network.”

Salford’s mayor added: “Salford has experienced rapid development and economic growth in recent years and approval of the dynamic Western Gateway Development Zone is a significant step forward for future growth in Salford, Trafford and Greater Manchester.

“Our city is changing and growing, and we are determined to build on the success that has been achieved with new and innovative opportunities with our partners that will ensure the city’s economic expansion and also benefit our communities.”