Following approval for consultation by Salford City Council’s Cabinet, a public consultation commenced on Wednesday 18th October, which outlines the ambitious vision for MediaCity and Quayside.
Spanning 23.3 hectares, the site has the potential to bring over 3,000 new homes, more business opportunities across circa 75,000 sqm, as well as unparalleled access to employment, retail, leisure and recreation.
The vast scale of the proposed regeneration project will stretch from MediaCity’s current footprint doubling its size including the area around Quayside and will be defined by four distinct quarters each characterised by a specific purpose.
Stephen Wild, MediaCity’s Managing Director said: “This proposed Regeneration Framework for MediaCity and Quayside is a once in a generation opportunity to shape the future of this dynamic area to reach its full potential over the next 10 to 15 years.
“In partnership with Salford City Council, we want to deliver an unrivalled destination which will provide more quality homes, employment opportunities, community facilities, a rich cultural and leisure scene while making the most of The Quays greatest assets – the waterfront.
“We’ve already started to bring forward improvements to Quayside in line with Salford City Council’s 2030 vision for the area, with the £3.5m investment in Central Bay – the new independent food and drink destination.”
The four zones include the Media Quarter, which currently has a cluster of creative, tech and digital companies positioned around the main Piazza and along the Manchester Ship Canal.
The Waterfront and Gateway zone will maximise the unique waterfront setting. New flexible structures and pavilions are proposed to enable the space to be activated in all weathers. Proposals also include a new pedestrian link bridge from MediaCity to The Lowry and Quayside as well as plans to activate North Bay.
The Living Hub presents a new opportunity for the destination featuring new, highly sustainable homes, businesses and convenience retail.
Finally the Culture and Community Hub is centred in and around Quayside and The Lowry Arts Centre is the vibrant cultural, leisure and retail heart of the destination which residents and visitors from across the region can access and enjoy.
Mike Hood, CEO of LandsecU+I, said: “We have big ambitions for MediaCity and this regeneration framework will help us on our journey to deliver a thriving place long into the future. It’s vital that this next phase of work is shaped by the community who will continue to live, work and enjoy MediaCity so we get the right answers on how to make positive change here.”
