Salford's skyline is poised for a dramatic transformation after city planners gave the green light to a monumental £1 billion development that will reshape the Greengate waterfront. The ambitious Waterside Quarter project promises to deliver four striking skyscrapers, with the tallest reaching an impressive 56 storeys.
A New Waterside Community
The approved scheme will create a vibrant new neighbourhood featuring approximately 1,700 residential units, alongside extensive commercial and retail spaces. Situated between the River Irwell and Trinity Way, this development represents one of the most significant urban regeneration projects in Northwest England.
Planning committee members overwhelmingly supported the application despite acknowledging the substantial scale of the development. The project is expected to generate hundreds of construction jobs and provide a major economic boost to the Salford and Greater Manchester economy.
Design Excellence and Public Spaces
The development will include:
- Four towers of 56, 50, 44 and 33 storeys respectively
- Over 25,000 square metres of commercial space
- New public realm improvements along the riverfront
- Enhanced pedestrian access and cycling infrastructure
- Landscaped gardens and community spaces
Councillors praised the design quality, noting how the stepped heights of the towers would create visual interest while respecting the surrounding urban landscape. The development aims to achieve a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating for its environmental performance.
Addressing Local Concerns
During the planning process, some concerns were raised about the density of the development and its impact on local infrastructure. However, planners emphasised that the scheme includes substantial contributions to affordable housing and public transport improvements.
The development site, currently occupied by surface car parks and vacant buildings, has long been identified as having significant regeneration potential. Its strategic location adjacent to Manchester city centre and excellent transport links make it an ideal location for high-density development.
This approval marks another milestone in Salford's ongoing transformation, following the success of nearby developments including the Greengate projects that have already reshaped this crucial gateway between Salford and Manchester.
