The Redevelopment of Salford Quays, Greater Manchester

Abstract

In the last twenty years, there has been a major transformation in the heart of the Greater Manchester Conurbation. From a declining industrial base with high unemployment, poor housing and a degraded physical environment, the area is rapidly becoming transformed into a post-industrial city, with all the attributes of modern European living. High tech industries, new flats and apartments, retail, leisure and sporting facilities, museums, art galleries together with a new tram network are contributing to this renaissance. At the same time the rivers and canals are being cleansed and opened up for public access, trees have been planted and new walkways, squares and gardens are creating a softer and more welcoming environment. The Manchester Docks located at the head of the Manchester Ship Canal, some 50 kilometres from the sea, but within the administrative area of the City of Salford, were virtually closed by 1983. Their redevelopment as Salford Quays over the next twenty years symbolised the changes that have taken place and illustrates the extent of the transformation. This article seeks to put this regeneration project in context and to evaluate its impact on the wider urban and regional development of its sub-region.