Can MediaCity and the Quays waterfront ‘rival some of the finest in the world?’

New regeneration proposals to transform MediaCity and The Quays into an iconic waterfront destination, “rivalling some of the finest in the world”, have been given the green light by Salford City Council.

MediaCity and The Quays transformation

Inspired by design-led waterfronts such as Oslo in Norway and Australia’s Darling Harbour, the revised regeneration proposals also include 3,000 new homes as well as 800,000 sq ft of additional commercial space.

The local community have also had their say on the plans after a long consultation period.

What have they got planned for the MediaCity developments?

Waterfront and Gateway Zone

An artist’s impression has been released to illustrate the new vision for the waterfront – the focal point of the regeneration plan’s waterfront and Gateway quarter – which will form one of four zones.

The aspirational vision for the waterfront will bring new and flexible, all-weather glass-fronted structures and pavilions.

This includes 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 more, quality nature and green space, innovative art installations, and places for people to eat, drink or 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 brand activations all year round.

The Media Quarter

The backdrop to the waterfront is 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

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.

Culture and Community Hub

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

“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,” said Stephen Wild, MediaCity managing director.

“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.”

Mike Hood, CEO of LandsecU+I, the regeneration arm of Landsec, said: “Since its inception, MediaCity has been at the forefront of creativity. These proposals allow us to take the next step with its evolution, as we continue to focus on how MediaCity can showcase the future of entertainment, living, experience and innovation.”

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “Following the recent consultation, where the public were able to share their views on the future of the area, it’s exciting to now see these proposals approved.

“MediaCity has always been a striking development that has caught the eye and imagination of so many since its inception, and so to now see the next step in its evolution is really positive.

“What’s to come will further cement MediaCity’s position as the place to live and work in the northwest and a must-see destination.

“With office space to cater for the growing number of businesses looking to relocate to Salford and a significant number of new homes to support our drive to alleviate the housing crisis.

“MediaCity will continue to be a hugely important development for the city.”

You can read more about the MediaCity and Quays regeneration framework by clicking here