During 2023 we carried out engagement in Salford Quays with local residents, organisations and visitors to seek their views on improving the outdoor space at Mariner’s Canal.
This was in support of Salford City Council’s wider aspirations to make improvements to some of the walking routes and outdoor spaces around Salford Quays as part of an Inner Loop.
After consultation concluded, we analysed and reviewed the feedback received before finalising proposals, costing the detailed plans and exploring relevant funding opportunities. We are pleased to announce that funding has been secured for the first phase of the project, and approval granted to begin on site!
What is happening now?
Approval has been granted to deliver the first phase of the project, focusing primarily on the south-western paddle adjacent to the Water Sports Centre (Area A) and the western side of the canal south of Grain Wharf Bridge (Area B), as demonstrated in the image below.
The scheme seeks to increase opportunities for residents to play a more active role in their local area while continuing to invest in quality green infrastructure in the area.
Larger planting beds will be created, increasing biodiversity in the area. The beds have been designed in collaboration with a local group, and a community planting scheme will create a space for everyone to get involved. Existing trees will be removed as part of the scheme, with an equal number of more suitable species replanted.
When will this take place? What will happen to the path during this time?
Works will begin in February 2026, continuing until April 2026.
The access lower pathway along the canal will be closed off during this period, but the upper pathway will remain open and diversions will be clearly signposted on site.
Why are the trees being removed?
The trees along the avenue have reached a point where they’re struggling to thrive in this location. Some have already been removed for safety reasons, and others are showing signs of stress and disease. To protect the long-term health and beauty of the avenue, we need to take action. Doing nothing would mean further decline over time.
We also want to make the area safer and more welcoming. Willow is quick growing and often requires regular pollarding to improve sight lines. Overgrown trees can create hidden spaces that limit natural visibility, which makes it harder for CCTV to help prevent antisocial behaviour. Regular pruning to maintain camera views has further affected the trees’ health.
Although these trees will be removed, we’re committed to keeping greenery in the area. The same number of new trees will be planted, carefully chosen to support biodiversity, add visual variety, and enhance the local environment for the long term.
How many trees will be planted?
An equal number of trees will be planted. 17 trees will be removed, and 17 will be planted to replace them.
What sorts of trees will be planted, and why?
New trees have been considered for their suitability to this location, including eventual size, to maximise their chance of survival. The new trees have been carefully chosen to support biodiversity and provide year-round visual interest with differences in height, density, colour and seasonal variation.
Works are only being carried out in a section of the canal. What will happen to the rest of the space?
For now, the remaining sections of the canal will stay unchanged. However, we are currently exploring additional funding opportunities to continue improvements along the rest of the canal. The current phase will act as a pilot project while will allow us to observe which interventions are successful before rolling this out to the rest of the scheme.
How can I get involved?
We would love for you to take part in the community planting scheme! It’s a great opportunity to meet other people who live and work in your local area and do some gardening. If you would like to get involved, please contact the Rangers at rangers@salford.gov.uk. Everyone is welcome and no previous experience is required.
Any other questions?
If you have any other questions, please contact us at marinerscanalproject@salford.gov.uk.