Irwell River Park Strategy Public Consultation
Welcome to the public consultation page for Irwell River Park.
We are pleased to introduce our vision to transform the 8km stretch of the River Irwell from Salford Quays to Peel Park into a vibrant and accessible urban park, and we want to hear your views.
Introducing Irwell River Park
Irwell River Park (IRP) represents Salford City Council’s vision for creating a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable urban park along an 8km stretch of the River Irwell.
This exciting project focuses on connecting Salford Quays to Peel Park through a series of walking and cycling routes, public spaces, and nature-rich environments.
A renewed strategy is being developed which builds on past efforts but introduces a stronger focus on active travel, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.
Background to Irwell River Park
The following timeline break downs where the concept of Irwell River Park began and where we are at now.
2008
Irwell River Park Guidance adopted
In 2008 Manchester City Council, Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council and Salford City Council adopted guidance for an exciting urban river park, named Irwell River Park (IRP).
‘Irwell River Park Planning Guidance’ set out a vision to see the restoration of the river and to create a new and exciting urban park along its length.
Unfortunately, the financial crash later in 2008 significantly impacted the implementation of this vision, delaying progress in the following years.
2013 - 2023
Renewed potential and improvements made
Salford attracts billions of pounds in investment and changes at an ever increasing pace. Salford Local Plan becomes adopted policy for IRP.
Work on the project takes place as opportunities have arisen, resulting in a range of benefits. Access to and the green space itself at Crescent Meadows was improved, as well as the river side path alongside the Urban Splash development at Springfield Lane. Work also led to securing funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to refurbish Peel Park and the transformation of Riverside at Chapel Wharf.
2023 - 2024
Time to refresh and looking forward
Salford City Council identify the need for an updated strategy to guide future development and investment to ensure that the current potential of the area can be maximised.
A new IRP Connectivity and Movement Strategy is commissioned to guide future development and investment along the Irwell within Salford, and we are now asking for your views to help shape this.
The Vision
The Irwell River Park strategy aligns with Salford City Council’s broader goals of creating a greener, fairer, and healthier city. Over the next decade, the park will evolve into an essential part of daily life in Salford, a place where residents can live healthier lives, engage with nature, and connect with their city’s rich history.
Explore the vision and plans for Irwell River Park
To view the vision and plans for Irwell River Park, please click the link below. This document provides more detailed plans for each of the main character zones along the River Irwell: The Meadows & Anaconda, Salford City, Ordsall Riverside and Salford Quays.
Irwell River Park Connectivity & Movement Strategy
To explore the full Irwell River Park Connectivity & Movement Strategy, please click the link below. This document outlines the comprehensive strategy, including detailed proposals for improving access and public spaces.
Visit one of our drop-in sessions
Come and talk to our team at one of our drop-in sessions. This will provide you with the opportunity to view our plans and share your ideas.
• Tuesday 8 October, 4pm to 7pm at Salford Watersports Centre (15 The Quays, Salford, M50 3SQ)
• Thursday 10 October, 4pm to 7pm at Sacred Trinity Church (Chapel St, Salford, M3 5DW)
• Saturday 26 October, 11.30am to 3pm at Salford Museum and Art Gallery (Peel Park, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WU)
Alternatively, if you are unable to attend one of our drop-in events, you can email us at: engage@irwellriverpark.co.uk.
Phases
Review feedback and finalise strategy document
Following our consultation, Salford City Council will review the feedback from the survey, and the in-person events to understand what local people think of the plans and to consider any other suggestions. We will analyse the feedback we have received before finalising the strategy document.