community

Ordsall Divide

Community Divided Over High-Rise Plans

Ordsall, once a quiet corner of Salford, is at the heart of a growing debate as plans for 274 new homes in the area have been given the green light. The development, which will see a mix of townhouses and high-rise apartments popping up around Robert Hall Street and West Park Street, promises to bring much-needed affordable housing to the city. But not everyone is thrilled.

A Regeneration Boom or a Loss of Identity?

The new housing project, backed by Salford City Council and designed by Buttress Architects, is part of a broader push to tackle Salford’s housing crisis. With 40% of the homes set aside as affordable housing, many locals are welcoming the initiative. “We need more homes, and we need them fast. It’s impossible to find something affordable around here,” said Claire, an Ordsall resident who’s been renting in the area for over a decade.

But while some see the project as a positive step towards solving Salford’s housing issues, others are concerned that Ordsall is losing its unique identity. "This was always a tight-knit community," says Mick, a long-time local. "Now, it's all about these big high-rises. It feels like we're becoming part of Manchester’s skyline instead of keeping Ordsall’s character."

Concerns Over High-Rises

The plan includes several buildings up to five storeys high, which some residents feel clashes with the area’s traditional feel. "Why do we need more of these faceless blocks? They're building flats now that’ll be knocked down in 30 years," one resident commented during a local consultation event.

It’s not just aesthetics that are troubling some locals. Many are worried about the strain on local infrastructure. “Where’s the plan for more schools or shops? We’re getting hundreds of new neighbours, but nothing for them to do,” said Lisa, who lives nearby.

Green Spaces and Sustainability

The developers are keen to emphasize that the project is about more than just bricks and mortar. The designs incorporate public green spaces and use renewable technologies to meet the city’s sustainability targets. "We’re building homes that will last, with reduced energy costs for residents. This project isn’t just about filling space but enhancing the area," says Ben Tabiner, Associate Director at Buttress.

The council is also optimistic about the benefits, with Councillor Tracy Kelly commenting: “This is about giving local people homes they can afford. We have thousands of families on the waiting list, and this project will help tackle that.”

Divided Community

Despite these assurances, the community remains divided. For some, the idea of regeneration is exciting. But for others, it feels like the start of a worrying transformation. "They need to listen to the people who live here," says Mick. "Otherwise, it’s just going to end up looking like any other soulless urban block."

Whether this new development will mark a positive shift or signal the erosion of Ordsall’s character is still up for debate. One thing’s for sure: the conversation about Salford’s future is just beginning.

Entertainment

Echo Salford

Explore Salford’s Iconic Musical Heritage in Augmented Reality

Salford is renowned for its rich cultural legacy, and now, thanks to Echo Salford, that history has never been more interactive or immersive. This cutting-edge project, which takes you on an augmented reality (AR) trail through some of Salford’s most iconic locations, celebrates the city’s immense contributions to the world of music and art.

Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Echo Salford offers locals and visitors alike the chance to dive deep into Salford’s musical roots. Using the free Echo Salford app, you can embark on a journey starting from MediaCity, winding through places like Salford Lads Club, Islington Mill, and the infamous Kings Arms. At each stop, you’ll unlock exclusive AR content—historical images, commentary from Salford legends, and digital memorabilia—that brings the city’s vibrant past to life.

From indie rock pioneers like The Smiths to modern icons such as John Cooper Clarke, the trail features commentary from both legends and the next generation of talent. Expect to hear the voices of Peter Hook, Maxine Peake, and more as they share their personal insights into the city’s artistic impact.

This project isn’t just about celebrating the past—it’s also a nod to the future. Alongside its historical elements, Echo Salford provides creative opportunities for students and early-career professionals through partnerships with local institutions, such as the University of Salford.

Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or simply looking to explore the city in a fresh, new way, Echo Salford is a must-do experience. And the best part? It’s accessible to everyone. Just download the app and set off on a journey through Salford’s unparalleled cultural landscape.

Ready to start the trail? Download the Echo Salford app today from the App Store or Google Play and take part in a groundbreaking blend of history, technology, and creativity right here in the heart of Salford​

History

Maxwell Hall’s Epic Legacy

Salford’s Forgotten Music Mecca

For most people passing by Salford Crescent, Maxwell Hall might seem like just another university building. But this unassuming venue holds a storied past that many are unaware of—it once hosted some of the world’s biggest bands and was a true cultural hub for music lovers in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Back in the day, Maxwell Hall was the place to catch live performances from iconic acts. Think Joy Division, Blondie, The Smiths, and even U2—all of whom graced the stage at this historic venue. From Paul McCartney's Wings to the post-punk sounds of local legends like Peter Hook (Joy Division/New Order) and Mike Joyce (The Smiths), Maxwell Hall was at the center of a musical revolution​

It wasn’t just about the music; Maxwell Hall represented a cultural heartbeat for the city. Whether it was punk, new wave, or post-punk, the venue was a proving ground for bands that would go on to shape British music for generations. Despite its current low profile, its influence on Salford’s cultural and musical identity is undeniable.

So next time you pass by Salford Crescent, take a moment to appreciate Maxwell Hall—not just as a university building, but as a venue that helped define an era of music in Salford. It’s a vital part of the city’s rich cultural history, one that still resonates through Salford’s creative community today.

SPORT

Defeated but Determined

Salford Red Devils Gear Up for Play-Off Glory

The Salford Red Devils may have faced a tough defeat against Wigan Warriors last night, losing 64-0, but all eyes are now set on the upcoming Super League play-offs. Wigan dominated the game from the outset, securing the League Leaders' Shield with a flurry of tries, including a hat-trick from Jai Field and strong performances from Liam Marshall and Bevan French​

Despite the heavy loss, this match was always part of a bigger strategy for Salford. With a play-off spot already secured, Head Coach Paul Rowley opted to rest key players and give a debut to eight youngsters. This decision reflects Salford's long-term thinking—saving their top squad for the more crucial upcoming elimination play-offs​

While the defeat against Wigan was a challenge, it provided invaluable experience for the Red Devils' emerging talents, who fought hard against one of the league's most dominant teams. Wigan’s relentless attack saw them pile on the points, with the Red Devils unable to gain a foothold in the game, but Salford can take pride in having rested their stars in preparation for what's next.

Play-Offs On the Horizon

Salford’s attention now turns to the Super League elimination play-offs, where the team will be fighting to keep their season alive. While their next opponents and location for the game will be confirmed after this weekend’s final round of fixtures, Salford fans can expect a much stronger, fresher squad ready to take on whatever challenge comes their way​.

Salford currently sits fourth in the standings, ensuring a good shot at play-off progression, with their opponent likely to be determined based on results from matches involving St Helens and Leigh Leopards​. The Red Devils have shown great consistency throughout the season, and with their top players back in action, they’ll be eager to push deep into the postseason.

A Positive Outlook

Though the loss to Wigan stings, the real test is yet to come. Salford fans can take comfort in knowing their team has a second wind coming. The rest given to key players will make all the difference as they gear up for a high-stakes play-off battle. The Red Devils have the talent, determination, and experience to make a serious impact in the play-offs, and the supporters will be right behind them as they take the field next week.

So, while last night’s result may not have gone our way, the season is far from over. Salford Red Devils are ready to fight for glory, and the play-offs are where it really counts.

For more info and ticket purchasing, visit the Salford Red Devils website here: www.salfordreddevils.net

EVENTS

Fat Out Fest 2024

The Sonic Revolution Returns to Salford

The countdown is on. As the autumn equinox approaches, Salford is about to ignite with one of the UK's most daring and offbeat celebrations of sound, art, and culture — Fat Out Fest 2024. Running from September 20th to 22nd, this year’s edition promises to be the most ambitious yet, inviting curious souls to venture beyond the mainstream into a world where the experimental, the challenging, and the downright wild collide.

Once again, Islington Mill — a cornerstone of the UK’s alternative arts scene — will be the heart of the action. Over three packed days, audiences will journey through a series of performances that traverse genres and expectations, from the intimate depths of left-field folk music to the seismic tremors of live techno and noise rock. But Fat Out isn’t just about music; it’s a living, breathing canvas for all things avant-garde. In this year’s curation, the festival’s reputation as a crucible for boundary-pushing art and sound remains undeniable.

Among the standout names gracing the lineup are folk innovator Angeline Morrison and Kongo-influenced techno outfit Electroni Kongo. However, that’s just the tip of the sonic iceberg. Zakia Sewell, the respected NTS DJ and broadcaster, is co-curating a mesmerizing concert in the resplendent Peel Hall, blending ancient roots and modern beats. This collaboration will showcase talents like Scottish piper Brìghde Chaimbeul, whose evocative playing will undoubtedly stir something ancient within listeners. Equally captivating is the appearance of Japanese noise rock titans QUJAKU, whose live performances are as disorienting as they are hypnotic.

Adding even more texture to this year’s event is the Hybrid Futures exhibition, a profound dive into the climate crisis through interactive audiovisual performance. Set in Salford Museum and Art Gallery, this installation offers a visceral exploration of humanity’s impact on the planet, pulling no punches in its commentary on the times we live in.

But it’s not all about heavy topics and introspective moments. Fat Out Fest 2024 will also embrace its wilder side, particularly with the “Fatty Acid After Party,” a nocturnal celebration sprawling across Islington Mill’s club space, courtyard, and top floor. Expect a sensory overload of beats, lights, and the ecstatic energy that only Fat Out can bring.

Workshops, open-call exhibitions like the one led by The Fat Zine, and thought-provoking discussions at the Working Class Movement Library round out a program that refuses to be confined. Themes of class struggle, fat liberation, and social justice will be explored in depth, ensuring that Fat Out continues to be not just an event, but a space for active resistance and creative rebellion.

In the words of the festival’s manifesto: Fat Out Fest is more than music. It’s a state of mind. For those ready to embrace the weird, the loud, and the beautiful chaos of the underground, Salford awaits.

For more info and tickets, visit www.fatout.info