The unique new dining and art experience is called ‘Box on the Docks’.
Launching at the end of July, MediaCityUK is set to open approximately 30 greenhouse-style boxes, where guests will be able to safely dine with a number of restaurants – allowing for both social distancing and a barrier between diners while COVID-19 lingers.
The project, which is part dining experience-part art project, will see popular restaurants such as The Dockyard, The Alchemist, Vertigo and Grindsmith in participation – with more restaurants set to be announced later this month.
Honing in on this summer’s alfresco dining trend, the brand new self-contained pods will be dotted throughout MediaCityUK outside restaurants and cafes, helping local hospitality businesses get back on their feet and offer up a safe and welcoming experience for their customers now lockdown has been lifted.
Collaborating with local artists, the new pods will be decorated with murals, light installations and more, with commissions sent out to Salford students and early career artists who are graduates of Salford University School of Art.
In addition to the new pods, guests can take advantage of outdoor seating with stunning views of the waterside – perfect for those who just want to grab a coffee and enjoy the weather during their visit. All seating will be spaced out to allow for social distancing, with increased hygiene procedures implemented by on-site vendors.
Josie Cahill, Place Director at MediaCityUK said: “As people start to safely spend more time outside, Box on the Docks will hopefully offer a new cultural destination with the boxes becoming an al fresco gallery to explore the work of Salford-based artists whilst enjoying the green space and canal views at MediaCityUK. We’re looking forward to seeing the commissions installed and welcoming visitors safely back to MediaCityUK.”