£10m upgrade planned for Salford Shopping City

THE owner of the Salford Shopping City complex which was damaged during last month’s riots has submitted plans for a £10m extension of the centre.

Salford Estates said that it plans to add 13 new modern, double-height shop units to accommodate a broader range of retailers. It also plans to build a new market hall to replace the current market which has become isolated and is under-used by traders.

The company said that the expansion will help to create more than 300 new full and part-time jobs.

Salford Estates’ plan follows a long-running battle with Salford Council and Tesco over a decision to grant planning approval to the supermarket giant to build a 120,000 sq ft, £45m superstore on a site next to Salford Shopping City just months after Salford Estates bought the site.

However, in recent months the firm has sought to work with the developers of the Tesco store to provide better links between the two schemes. Salford Estates’ latest plan involves the closure of Pendleton Way to create a traffic-free pedestrian square which can also be used for community activities. Environmental improvements will also be made around the site.

Salford Estates spokeswoman Debbie Illingworth said: “These changes will transform the shopping experience at the centre.  

“Big brand retailers demand modern, double height shops and by providing these together with some smaller units and significantly improved space for the market traders we can expand the range of shops on offer in areas like sports and fashion.

“We are focused on moving forward from the recent events in and around Salford Shopping Centre and are wholly committed to the long-term future and prosperity of the Centre and being part of its success.”

The firm expects its application to remodel the centre to be determined by Salford City Council in November.