Irwell River Park Strategy

The original Irwell River Park scheme began in 2008 with the goal of creating an active travel route between the City Centre and The Quays, along the River Irwell. The ambitious plans were developed in partnership with Manchester and Trafford Councils.

Work on the project has taken place over the years 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.

Through the scheme, residents have been able to take advantage of an improved network of accessible paths close to the river through New Bailey and the creation of attractive and well used public spaces within The Quays.

Other elements to be completed, have seen better connectivity between Spinningfields and New Bailey via a new bridge connection, as well as a new riverside space and pedestrian/cycling footbridge connecting with Aviva Studios, which opened in 2023 and work on improving a section of towpath beneath Stephenson’s historic rail bridge.

Following completion of the initial work, Salford City Council’s ambition has remained to further deliver projects alongside the river. 

The new Irwell River Park Connectivity and Movement Strategy was approved by Salford City Council on 8 April 2025. The new strategy reflects ambitions to enhance connectivity, public realm, accessibility and identity along the IRP, making it a vibrant asset and a place for all.

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. 

"This refreshed strategy for Irwell River Park is so important. It will focus on making the River Irwell  attractive, safe and easily accessible from surrounding neighbourhoods and by public transport. Also, connecting local neighbourhoods with the rich history, culture, public spaces and parks that surround the river.  

"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.”  

Where is Irwell River Park located within the city?

Irwell River Park is an 8km stretch of the Irwell corridor across City Centre Salford, between MediaCity and Peel Park.

Consultation

In Summer 2024, Salford City Council ran an initial scoping consultation by emailing and sending letters to key statutory stakeholders asking for initial feedback and thoughts on the principle of Irwell River Park. The comments received were reviewed and informed the draft strategy. Public consultation on the draft strategy took place from Monday 23 September to Monday 4 November 2024. The strategy was updated in light of responses received, and the final Irwell River Park Connectivity and Movement Strategy was approved by the Council on 8 April 2025 and can be accessed along with the other key public documents at the bottom of this page in the 'downloadable documents' section.

Using the strategy

The Irwell River Park Connectivity and Movement Strategy should be read alongside the Salford Local Plan and other planning guidance. It will be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications in the area. It will also guide future investment decisions by key agencies and developers.

Executive summary

An executive summary of the Irwell River Park Connectivity and Movement Strategy can be found here.

A full version of the strategy, and supporting documentation, are available to download from the download section of this page.

This page was last updated on 17 April 2025