World class plans for MediaCity and the Quays approved

New regeneration proposals which will transform MediaCity and The Quays into an iconic waterfront destination, rivalling some of the finest in the world, have been given the greenlight by Salford City Council.

Inspired by design-led waterfronts such as Oslo in Norway and Australia’s Darling Harbour the revised regeneration proposals, which were submitted in December last year after an extensive consultation, will also bring c3,000 new homes as well as c800,000 sq ft of additional business opportunity across 60 acres.

A new artist’s impression has been released to illustrate the re-shaped vision for the waterfront – the focal point of the regeneration plan’s waterfront and Gateway quarter – forming one of four zones.

The aspirational vision for the waterfront will bring, new and flexible, all-weather glass fronted structures and pavilions including a new pedestrian link bridge from MediaCity to The Lowry and Quayside as well as plans to activate North Bay.

A new boardwalk and link bridge along the MediaCity waterfront will feature greenery, innovative art installations, places for the public to eat, drink or simply sit and enjoy the tranquil views from new, design-led fixed outdoor furniture. The giant Piazza will also be reimagined with moveable structures which can house a variety of activations all year round.

The backdrop to the waterfront will be the media quarter – home to the current cluster of 250 creative, tech and digital companies including ITV, BBC and dock10 studios positioned around MediaCity’s main Piazza.

The Living Hub will bring a new opportunity for the destination featuring new, highly sustainable homes, businesses and convenience retail interspersed with pockets of green space and boulevards. While, the Culture and Community Hub centred in and around Quayside and The Lowry aims to be the cultural, leisure and retail heart of the destination.

Stephen Wild, MediaCity Managing Director said: “The re-shaped regeneration proposals will support us in delivering a world class destination where people will want to live, work and learn for many years to come. As the home of future media, MediaCity’s output is global and its environment needs to reflect its international significance. While the waterfront is the gateway to MediaCity and the Quays, it’s right that it should compete with some of the finest waterfront destinations in the world. We’re looking forward to working with our partners to make our vision a reality.”