Plans for new City Quarter encompassing Manchester and Salford set to be approved

Manchester and Salford City Councils are expected to endorse and approve the Strategic Regeneration Framework for the long-term transformation of the Strangeways and Cambridge areas at the respective executive committees next week

The plans restate the case to the government for the relocation of HMP Manchester, noting the regeneration opportunity presented by the site and the barrier to development that the prison currently presents.

The plans provide a vision for the 130 hectare city centre fringe area, will help guide future development and follows the success of GMP’s Operation Vulcan enforcement programme

The wider area could accommodate 7,000 new homes across seven neighbourhoods that incorporate sustainability, active travel and new green spaces.

Around 1.75m sqft of commercial space could be created or improved, potentially providing 4,500 new jobs.

The first developments within the Strangeways area are already on site, including the Brewery Gardens project by Clarion on Trinity Way, providing 505 new homes – of which 132 will be for social rent and 171 for shared ownership.

While Salboy’s Waterhouse Gardens development, which will deliver 556 new homes and 30,000sqft of commercial space, has recently seen the first new residents move in

“The formal adoption of this framework is a milestone that we will remember for Strangeways as we move from vision to delivery and the beginning of a long-term regeneration programme for this part of our city.” says leader of Manchester Council Bev Craig

“We know this is an area that has faced challenges, and we have worked closely with partners – including GMP through Operation Vulcan – to create lasting change and opportunity for these neighbourhoods.

“This is about supporting businesses, creating jobs through growth, and building the homes our residents need in neighbourhoods that they are proud of. Already we are seeing extensive development activity in this area, including significant new social rent and shared ownership housing on site now. But this is only the beginning of an incredibly exciting decade and more for Strangeways.”

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett added

“In 2023 we entered into a joint commission with Manchester City Council to develop this Strategic Regeneration Framework for both the Strangeway and Cambridge areas.

“The development of the framework marks a significant step forward in our shared journey to transform the area into thriving, connected neighbourhoods. Informed by detailed flood modelling, the framework sets out a proactive strategy that embraces nature-based solutions and resilient design to ensure the Cambridge area can adapt to the impacts of climate change over the coming decades.

“The proposals in the framework seek to identify the best possible options for this area, including the exciting opportunity to create a new city park for all, alongside appropriate levels of mixed-use development to continue to drive sustainable growth.

“With strong community roots and a rich cultural heritage, this area is brimming with potential and together we can deliver transformational change creating new homes, jobs, and green spaces that reflect the aspirations of our residents and support a greener, fairer future.

“Earlier this year we held a nine-week public consultation so people could give their views on the SRF proposals. And it does not end there as we will continue to take on views from local people and businesses to shape our work in this area over the coming months and years.”