'The economic opportunity possible through this area's rejuvenation and reimagining is immense'
Plans to create a 'significant regeneration initiative' to breathe new life into the Strangeways area of Manchester and adjoining land in Salford, collectively spanning more than 320 acres, have taken a step forward.
"The economic opportunity possible through this area's rejuvenation and reimagining is immense," say the councils of Strangeways in a procurement brief. As a result the councils have confirmed the team brought in to deliver an aspirational 'Strategic Regeneration Framework' for the area's rejuvenation - expected to be appointed by autumn - will have to develop the proposals 'including the prison in situ'.
"This initiative is roughly six months into a three-year programme, funded through the proceeds of crime. Some key outputs to date include £248k cash seized, 72 counterfeit shops closed, 75 individual arrests, 1.2m tablets seized and 257 tonnes of counterfeit goods with a value of £39m repurposed. Whilst the initiative has had significant success, it has emphasised the need for long-term intervention and investment in the area.
A vision for the area, they add, has been 'evolving' over recent years, evidenced by the completion of the Manchester College building on the site of the old Boddingtons brewery and plans for Great Ducie Street. The Cambridge area of Salford - largely industrial and included in the plan - is said to be a 'long-standing, well-established business district and home to over 200 businesses', but also at a severe risk of flooding.
"The neighbourhood is therefore considered a priority for regeneration and we are in the process of procuring a team to deliver a long-term, aspirational Strategic Regeneration Framework that will help guide investment in the area over the next two decades.