A new public consultation aimed at capturing locals’ views on plans for Irwell River Park in Salford is set to launch on September 23. 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.
Following completion of the initial work, Salford City Council’s ambition has remained to further deliver projects alongside the river. 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 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
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.”
Following public consultation, the strategy will then be amended and finalised, with approval of the finished strategy by the council expected early in 2025.
Previously 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.