Salford student village redevelopment could create 100 retail jobs

The former Castle Irwell student village in Salford could be transformed into homes and retail space if new plans are approved.

A planning application is being prepared to redevelop the site into as many as 500 family homes, riverfront apartments and shops.

Castle Irwell, owned by the University of Salford, closed its doors in June 2015.

The proposals will also set land aside for a primary school and changing facilities for new playing fields on the site.

It is estimated that the scheme could create more than 100 retail jobs, potentially boosting the local economy by nearly £5m a year.

The retail element could likewise generate around £140k annually in business rates for Salford City Council to use to support services.

Cheadle Hulme-based consultancy Euan Kellie Property Solutions is bringing the plans forward.

Euan Kellie, director at the firm, said: “Castle Irwell [is] a site with a rich local history and close to many people’s hearts.

“Our plans will provide family homes and new shops for the local area, as well as a new primary school that will help address known capacity challenges across the city.”

He added: “Before we submit our plans to Salford City Council, we want to hear the views of local people, which will be fed into our final proposals.”

A public consultation is now underway, with a drop-in exhibition taking place at The Beacon Centre on London Street this Monday (March 26) from 2pm to 7pm.

The scheme will also have its own website, at Castleirwell.co.uk.

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