Stephenson Bridge, River Irwell, Salford

People in Salford are being asked for their views on how to improve the River Irwell in the city.

Salford City Council says it wants to make the Irwell ‘attractive, safe and easily accessible’ from surrounding neighbourhoods and by public transport – and wants the public to inform plans to improve the area around the waterway.

It also plans to connect neighbourhoods with the history, culture, public spaces and parks that surround the river.

The six-week consultation will launch on 23 September and can be accessed via the Salford City Council website https://www.salford.gov.uk/ from Monday 23 September.

River Irwell, Salford

Three in-person 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; and Saturday 26 October, 11.30am to 3pm at Salford Museum and Art Gallery.

Among the projects to be completed are a new bridge connecting Spinningfields and New Bailey and work on improving a section of towpath beneath Stephenson’s historic rail bridge.

Work has already taken place to improve access at Crescent Meadows and Springfield Lane, alongside refurbishing Peel Park and the Riverside at Chapel Wharf.

River Irwell, Salford

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.

“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.”

Approval of the finished strategy by the council is expected early in 2025.

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