Plans for new housing in Salford could threaten Greater Manchester’s UNESCO bid
Salford: Plans for new homes over a historic canal are causing concern. Campaigners worry this could block hopes for a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greater Manchester. Developer H2O Urban wants to build 204 homes at Upper Wharf Street.
The proposed development includes two residential blocks, up to seven and eleven stories tall. Salford council officers recommend approval, which includes a new park with walking and cycling paths. This park would cost £1.48 million.
However, campaigners are worried about losing a significant historical site. The area includes part of the old Manchester, Bolton and Bury canal, which was filled in back in 1961. The Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal Society believes this development could hinder future restoration efforts.
In a letter to the council, they stated that if the housing plans go ahead, it would make restoring the canal much harder. They argue that the canal is a key piece of industrial heritage, crucial to the area’s history.
They also mentioned that Greater Manchester currently lacks a UNESCO site, despite calls to include Marple Locks. The society believes that restoring the canal could lead to a World Heritage Site designation.
Concerns were raised about the proposed cycle and walkway, which could complicate future restoration efforts. The society suggests exposing the original towpath as a public footpath instead.
Salford council officers noted that the plans would not restore the canal. However, they have worked with the Canal and Rivers Trust to create an exclusion zone for potential future restoration.
The applicant has promised to preserve the buried heritage on site, ensuring that historical items remain undisturbed. The planning committee will decide on the application on February 6.
Since the plans were submitted, over 120 people have objected, citing concerns about restoring the canal and the lack of affordable housing in the proposal.
