Nick Smith
Regeneration Manager

The theme of this update is partnership working between a variety of organisations which really is a central requirement of any restoration scheme and an important way of getting things done.

A planning application has recently been submitted to Bolton Council for the site of the former Creams Paper Mill, an infamous site on the MB&BC for a number of reasons. The application proposes a major residential scheme comprising a mix of houses and apartments. Having visited the site again as a refresher with our Area Planner, Andy Pepper, we are working with the Society and also the local authority to ensure that we have a consistent response to the application which will protect future restoration and also makes the most of the asset in the interim period. This will include, amongst other matters, improved cycling and pedestrian access along with maintaining navigable headroom.

Our Head of Regeneration North, Julie Sharman, recently met senior officers from Salford Council to discuss the exciting developments planned for the Central Salford and Salford Crescent area of the city and how this strategic picture fits in with the on the ground restoration of the MB&BC. It was pleasing to hear that the restoration of the canal is still firmly on their radar and it is therefore important for us to continue to work with the local authority and also with the private sector to build on the success that has been realised through the Middlewood scheme.

Salford's New Deal for Communities team has recently financed and undertaken works to improve the wider environment at Park House Bridge in Pendleton. This has included extensive removal of fly-tipped material along with some vegetation, and installation of fencing to prevent future problems. There were a lot of tyres in the canal channel at this point which have also now been removed. A path which accesses the canal has been reinstated and is now much more inviting. With Society involvement and also a contribution from the Northwest Development Agency this is a great example of what can be achieved by working in partnership.