The English Cities Fund (ECF) and the University of Salford have submitted plans to Salford City Council to bring forward Crescent Innovation North, which is part of the wider £2.5bn, 252-acre Crescent masterplan.
The application covers an area of approximately 29 acres and includes the delivery of up to 933 new homes, as well as 1.7m sq ft of new commercial space.
Julian Stott, development director at ECF – a joint venture between Muse, Legal & General and Homes England – said: “The vision for Crescent is unique and we’re working hard for the people of Salford to turn that vision into reality. People make place and Crescent Innovation North, as an important stage of major regeneration, will connect communities across the city to opportunities to enable them to thrive and prosper.
“Together with the community, the university and the city council, we’re forging ahead with our collective vision to create a robust and resilient Salford that’s seen on a global stage as a leader of innovation, collaboration and place-making.”
Professor Helen Marshall, vice-chancellor at the University of Salford, added: “This is another exciting step in bringing greater prosperity to our pioneering city, through innovation and applied research. This development will help facilitate collaboration across the region and help build a network of innovation support and development, to help businesses grow and become even more successful. Specifically for the university, it will offer a new way to engage with our long-standing partners and to develop and attract new partners.”
Paul Dennett, Salford city mayor, said: “It is fantastic news to see that our ambitious plans for Crescent Innovation North are moving forwards. With our Crescent partners – the English Cities Fund and University of Salford – we are pushing ahead with our vision to create world-class research and development facilities that local people and businesses can benefit from.
“The Crescent Innovation North proposals are a key element of the wider vision for the Crescent area and will change the face of the area through the creation of a high-quality innovation environment, where people can achieve their full potential.”
