Manchester and Salford City Councils are expected to give the green light this week to a major regeneration framework for the Strangeways and Cambridge areas. The plan, which follows months of public consultation, will guide how this part of the city is developed over the next 15 years.
A joint plan for two cities
This framework is a collaboration between the two councils and covers around 130 hectares on the edge of Manchester city centre. The aim is to turn the area into a lively new district with homes, workspaces, shops, green areas, and cultural spaces.
The plan includes 7,000 new homes across seven neighbourhoods, 1.75 million square feet of commercial space for businesses, and a huge new 60-hectare urban park. In total, around 4,500 jobs could be supported by the project.
Some developments are already happening: Clarion’s Brewery Gardens on Trinity Way is building 505 new homes, with many offered as social rent or shared ownership. Salboy’s Waterhouse Gardens nearby has delivered 556 homes and recently welcomed its first residents.
What local people said about the Strangeways and Cambridge regeneration plans
Earlier this year, local communities were invited to share their thoughts through a nine-week consultation and seven in-person events. Most people supported the plans, agreeing that the area needs to be safer, greener, and more vibrant. Many asked for more affordable housing and wanted to protect local heritage and cultural venues.
There was strong backing for better walking and cycling routes, though local businesses pointed out that parking and loading spaces will still be needed. Others supported adding more green space but raised concerns about what the changes might mean for existing businesses and homes.
The main goals of the Strangeways and Cambridge regeneration plans
The regeneration framework focuses on six goals:
- Support businesses with better workspaces and opportunities to grow.
- Create stronger links between Strangeways, the city centre, and nearby communities.
- Ensure new developments include homes, workspaces, and community areas.
- Build green spaces and sustainable drainage systems to reduce flood risk.
- Improve walking and cycling routes to make travel safer and more sustainable.
- Protect heritage buildings and celebrate the area’s cultural identity.
Once both councils approve the plan, it will guide future planning decisions. Work will then start on designing the first new neighbourhoods: Overbridge and Copper Park.
A greener and fairer future – supporting Manchester’s goal to become a zero-carbon city by 2038
The framework also supports Manchester’s goal to become a zero-carbon city by 2038. It takes into account flood risks and climate change, using nature-based solutions to make the area more resilient. The councils have also asked the government to reconsider relocating HMP Manchester, as the prison site currently limits development potential.
Manchester Council Leader Bev Craig called the plan “a milestone moment,” saying it will bring new homes, jobs, and opportunities while building neighbourhoods people can be proud of.
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:
“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.”
