Construction of the Salford Rise project has commenced, marking a significant development in the Crescent Salford masterplan.
- The £15M project spearheaded by Eric Wright Civil Engineering includes a green elevated walkway for improved connectivity.
- Salford Rise is supported by £13.17M from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.
- The project aims to dismantle barriers and promote accessible travel through expansive green spaces and pedestrian routes.
- Completion is expected by summer 2026, heralding a new era of development in Salford.
Eric Wright Civil Engineering has initiated the construction of the £15 million Salford Rise project, a pivotal element of the Crescent Salford masterplan valued at £2.5 billion. The project encompasses the creation of high-quality public infrastructure, notably featuring a green elevated walkway. This development is a partnership effort involving Legal & General, Homes England, and Muse, acting on behalf of Salford City Council. Its primary objective is to eliminate physical barriers and establish accessible pedestrian and cycling routes within the northern Crescent area, thereby enhancing community connectivity.
The project envisions the introduction of vast green spaces, along with new trees, plantings, and public squares designed to accommodate events and festivals. Among its most distinctive features is the planned 2-hectare elevated walkway, collaboratively designed by Make Architects, Planit, and Cundall. This 11-metre-wide, 220-metre-long structure will span Frederick Road, effectively linking the University of Salford’s campus with the Crescent innovation zone. The strategic aim is to facilitate active travel and foster a collaborative environment for both pedestrians and cyclists.
Financing for Salford Rise includes a significant contribution of £13.17 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund. Initial preparatory and ground works are projected to continue throughout 2024. This will pave the way for the main construction phase, which is slated to commence with the bridge erection in early 2025, aiming for completion by summer 2026. Salford Rise plays a crucial role within the broader Crescent masterplan, which anticipates the establishment of over 3,000 new homes, alongside 93,000 square metres of office, retail, and leisure space, a transportation hub, and extensive green areas.
The impetus behind the Crescent Innovation plans, already approved by Salford City Council, is to cultivate an innovation ecosystem adjacent to the University of Salford. The initiative endeavors to leverage local research capabilities, stimulate economic growth, and bolster collaboration between academia and businesses. Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett has voiced his enthusiasm regarding the project’s progression, underscoring its potential to facilitate transformational change and unlock opportunities for world-class, innovation-led research and development. Similarly, Nic Beech, Vice Chancellor of the University of Salford, acknowledged the project’s potential benefits, noting its capacity to foster community collaboration and sustainable modes of travel. Max King, ECF Project Director for the North West, also highlighted the project as a landmark moment realising the vision for Crescent Salford, reinforcing its role in unlocking opportunities and enhancing life in Salford.
The Salford Rise project is set to transform Salford’s landscape, greatly benefiting the community and fostering future innovation.
