An urgent works notice has been served on the owners of The Crescent pub in Salford, requiring immediate repairs to protect the Grade II-listed building.
The much-loved pub has fallen into disrepair following its closure in 2017, prompting action to preserve its historic features.
The Crescent, located on the A6 corridor, was a particularly popular drinking spot for Salford University students and professors due to its closeness to the campus.
With its iconic lime green facade faded and covered in graffiti, it has been determined that the building is in poor condition and needs immediate action to protect the grade II listed building from further decay and dilapidation.
The pub began pouring pints in the 19th century and was open for over 150 years before closing its doors. The building has some historic importance to the city with links to Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. It is rumoured that it was an informal meeting place for the two to discuss ideas which shaped modern political theory in the co-authoring of the communist manifesto and founding of Marxist theory.
This work is not an initiative to fully revive the building, and it will not be fully repaired, but it will be an important step in keeping the building standing and keeping the history of Salford alive through the pub.
The building is privately owned, with the Salford City Council working with the owners directly to implement the repair work.
The council says they have taken action to ensure the asset is not lost within the initial phase of reconstruction, which focuses on the interior and rear of the building.
A Section 54 notice was served at the pub on Monday 6 October 2025. It is a legal tool under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 that allows a local authority or Historic England to carry out urgent works, but only after giving notice to the owner.
10 working days have been given to the owner to allow them a final opportunity to demonstrate their willingness to carry out the work. If this is not possible, then the council may complete the works seeking full recovery costs from the owner.
Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith, Lead Member for Culture, Heritage, Equalities, Sports and Leisure at Salford City Council, said: “We are committed to protecting Salford’s heritage and ensuring that our important landmarks are not lost over time. The Crescent pub holds a unique place in our city’s history, and we cannot allow it to fall further into disrepair.
“The urgent works will help stabilise the internal structure and prevent further damage while longer-term restoration plans are explored. We will seek full recovery of the costs incurred from the owner.
“A big thank you must go to Historic England for their vital help and financial support for this action.”
Historic England’s Catherine Dewar said: “We fully support Salford City Council’s decisive action to safeguard The Crescent pub. This Grade II listed building is in an extremely poor condition and is important not only for its architecture but also for its remarkable place in social and political history.
“We commend Salford City Council for taking this vital first step to prevent further deterioration of this culturally important landmark in such a prominent location in the city, ensuring that buildings with such unique historical associations are preserved for future generations.”
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