One of the North West’s most important youth club buildings has received national recognition following decisions by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England.
Salford Lads and Girls Club has been upgraded from Grade II to Grade II* in recognition of its exceptional architectural and historic significance.
The decision recognises this rare surviving example of purpose-built lads’ clubs, a building type once common in industrial towns and cities but now increasingly scarce.
Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith, Lead Member for Culture, Heritage, Sports and Leisure at Salford City Council, said:
“I’m so pleased to see Salford Lads Club has now been designated as a Grade 2* listed building. The building holds such a special place in many local resident’s hearts across Salford, it has played a huge role in so many people’s lives and the whole city is so proud of what the club stands for.
“We are so pleased the Club has received this further national recognition, proving it’s not just us Salfordians who understand how important it is! It is quite unusual for this type of building to receive this status, and this really positive news further highlights the Lads Club’s uniqueness, and it means the building continues to be protected for future generations to come.”
Emma Squire and Claudia Kenyatta, Co-CEO Historic England, said:
“This remarkable building tells the story of a movement that transformed opportunities for generations of young people. Built to provide recreation, education and support, lads’ clubs became integral to community life across industrial Britain.
“Salford Lads and Girls Club is the finest surviving example of its type in the country and fully merits its Grade II* status.
“The building demonstrates the power of heritage to connect us with stories of community, philanthropy, social reform and opportunity. We are delighted its importance has been recognised through these listing decisions.”
Laura Slingsby, Chief Executive of Salford Lads and Girls Club, said:
“We are incredibly proud that Salford Lads and Girls Club has been recognised as a building of more than special interest. This is a tribute not only to the building itself, but to the generations of members, volunteers and staff who have kept it at the heart of the community for more than 120 years.
“The club continues to provide opportunities for young people today, and this recognition helps secure its future for generations to come.”
