Plans have been unveiled for the regeneration of the area around Strangeways, which will include a huge new park and up to 7000 new homes.
It’s also suggested that the new redevelopment of the area at the bottom of Bury New Road and the edge of Cheetham Hill – which appears to be named ‘Cambridge’, perhaps in relation to nearby Cambridge Street Industrial Estate – will create as many as 4,500 new jobs.
The park, under the working name of Copper Park, will be part of a network of green spaces which will ‘celebrate the River Irwell’, featuring some areas which will be ‘floodable’ to increase biodiversity, as well as the usual sports, fitness and play area facilities.
Meanwhile new buildings will ‘celebrate the existing architecture and heritage buildings in the area as part of the comprehensive regeneration plans’.
It’s also suggested that the future of HMP Prison Manchester, known as Strangeways, could be in question.
The plans say: “The SRF [Strategic Regeneration Framework] also reflects how HM Prison Manchester – formerly Strangeways Prison – remains a significant barrier to the regeneration ambitions in this part of the city and the framework will act as an engagement tool with the Ministry of Justice around the long-term future of the prison.”
Leader of the Council Bev Craig said: “This framework is our shared long-term vision, alongside our colleagues in Salford, to deliver a transformation in the Strangeways and Cambridge communities.
“We have an opportunity to create a platform for development and investment, enabled by the successful work carried out by the Operation Vulcan partnership, to support businesses to grow and prosper in these neighbourhoods – creating thousands of new jobs and support the ongoing growth of our city – alongside a major new public park and new homes, including Council, social and genuinely affordable housing.
“We know this area has challenges, including the prison that presents a key barrier to the regeneration of the area, but we also know that there is energy and a community brimming with potential.
“We will deliver huge change in Strangeways in the coming years, working alongside the people who live and work there, and as we move to consultation in the coming weeks, we want to speak to local people and businesses about how we can make this part of the city thrive.”
Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett added: “We’ve been on a journey of growth and regeneration in recent years, and our work has changed the landscape in different parts of Salford for the benefit of our residents. It’s now time to focus on the Cambridge area and working with colleagues in Manchester, this framework provides us with a once in a lifetime opportunity to do that.
“This framework proposes options for the Salford part of the SRF, taking into account the requirements of residents and local businesses, and the need for quality housing in the area. The key will be to balance these needs with what the long-term flood data is telling us and how we future-proof the area against climate change.
“The proposals in the framework seek to identify the best possible options for this area. These include the exciting opportunity to create a new city park for all, with an option for appropriate levels of mixed-use development, to continue to drive sustainable growth.
“I’d urge everyone with a vested interest in this area, whether you’re a resident or business to engage with the consultation process and work with us help shape the future of this part of the city.”
The plans will be discussed by Salford Council on 11 March and Manchester’s executive on 14 March.
Read more:
Ornella’s comes to Freight Island
Circolo Popolare to open in Manchester this summer
Manchester’s best Korean food
