Salford is entering a major phase of urban transformation. The Crescent Masterplan, valued at £2.5 billion, will reshape 240 acres of the city, delivering new housing, commercial space, green infrastructure, and innovation hubs.
Led by Salford City Council, the University of Salford, Homes England, Legal & General, and the English Cities Fund, the project aims to deliver 3,000 new homes, 1.5 million sq ft of commercial space, and up to 7,000 jobs, while embedding sustainability into the design through energy-efficient homes, renewable energy, and improved public spaces.
This article explains what the regeneration involves, who it will affect, and why it matters.
What the Crescent Masterplan Will Deliver
The project spans from Salford Crescent Station and the University campus to Peel Park and the River Irwell, integrating housing, workspaces, education, and leisure into a single district.
Key elements include:
- Housing – approximately 3,000 new homes, including energy-efficient Passivhaus-standard units.
- Employment space – around 1.5 million sq ft of commercial and innovation areas, supporting up to 7,000 jobs.
- University integration – collaboration with the University of Salford, fostering research and development in areas such as robotics, acoustics, and digital technology.
- Green infrastructure – an elevated green walkway, riverside improvements, and accessible public spaces.
- Sustainability – low-carbon energy solutions, resilient infrastructure, and environmentally focused urban design.
The Crescent is designed as a mixed-use district, blending residential, commercial, and educational uses.
Why Salford?
Salford has experienced significant growth, thanks to MediaCityUK, Salford Quays, and proximity to Manchester city centre. Relatively affordable housing and strong transport links make it an attractive location for residents and businesses.
The Crescent builds on this momentum by:
- Expanding housing supply to meet demand.
- Strengthening links between the University and local industry.
- Creating employment opportunities across a wide range of sectors.
- Improving public spaces and connectivity, enhancing the city’s appeal.
Impact on Housing and Local Markets
The new housing supply is expected to influence the local market by:
- Increasing availability – helping to meet the city’s growing demand for homes.
- Attracting residents – regeneration often makes areas more desirable, supporting rental and property demand.
While delivery will be phased over the next couple of years, the overall effect is likely to support both housing demand and market stability in Salford.
Economic and Commercial Impact
The Crescent’s commercial and innovation spaces aim to attract new businesses and support up to 7,000 jobs.
- Innovation hubs will focus on emerging technologies, in partnership with the University of Salford.
- Commercial demand could support local services, retail, and amenities, increasing the area’s economic vibrancy.
- Long-term value – regeneration can strengthen confidence in local markets, though outcomes will depend on completion, occupancy, and wider economic conditions.
Sustainability and Green Infrastructure
Sustainability is a central theme:
- Energy-efficient homes reduce running costs and environmental impact.
- Green corridors and walkways improve connectivity and quality of life.
- Riverside improvements open up public access to the River Irwell.
- Low-carbon infrastructure supports a resilient and futureproof district.
FAQs
Who will benefit most?
- Residents, through improved housing, amenities, and public spaces.
- Businesses, with new commercial space and links to innovation hubs.
- Investors, as regeneration projects typically support stronger demand and long-term market stability.
Who might be less directly impacted?
- Areas further from the Crescent may see slower change, although benefits can ripple outward over time.
What risks exist?
- Large regeneration schemes can face planning delays, cost pressures, and changing market conditions. Phased delivery may shift depending on these factors.
Did You Know?
- The Crescent covers 240 acres, one of the UK’s largest regeneration zones.
- It aims to deliver 3,000 homes and 7,000 jobs.
- Passivhaus homes and green infrastructure are core features.
- A new elevated green walkway will improve connectivity across the district.
- The project seeks to reconnect Salford with the River Irwell, creating accessible public spaces.
Looking Ahead
The Crescent Masterplan is a key part of Salford’s ongoing transformation. Over the next couple of years, phased delivery of housing, commercial space, and public infrastructure will gradually reshape the city centre.
For investors and market observers, the regeneration highlights:
- Structured growth – coordinated urban planning with public and private partners.
- Economic uplift – potential for increased housing demand and local employment.
- Sustainability and connectivity – infrastructure and green space designed for long-term resilience.
While risks and timelines remain, the Crescent represents a major step in Salford’s evolution, offering insight into how urban regeneration can drive economic, social, and environmental outcomes.
With 13 years at Knight Knox and a strong academic foundation in marketing—including a BA (Hons) and a CIM Diploma—Samantha Jones leads our marketing efforts with both strategic insight and creative flair. As Marketing Director, she brings a deep understanding of the property sector and a passion for delivering impactful campaigns.
Samantha thrives on the variety her role offers, from connecting with investors around the world to witnessing the transformation of developments she’s helped bring to market. She particularly values working in-house with a close-knit team, where collaboration and shared vision drive every project forward.
