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Central Salford is set to undergo significant regeneration following the approval of city councillors.

The scheme, which covers 17 hectares in total and touches the districts of Salford Central Station, Chapel Street and the Historic Core, will regenerate this part of the city following years of decline.

The redevelopment plan will cost an estimated £650m. A new square known as St Johns Place will be constructed around Salford Cathedral, and the development will also introduce new commercial and office space, as well as housing and retail outlets.

The proposed commercial area is designed to bridge Salford with the prestigious new Spinningfields development in Manchester.

Chris Farrow, chief executive of Central Salford Urban Regeneration Company, said:

"Today's decision marks a critical milestone in the regeneration of this key area of the City. Over the last two years Central Salford Urban Regeneration Company, in close partnership with our public and private sector partners, local businesses and communities, has worked tirelessly on the planning, design and consultation for the Chapel Street area."

The proposed redevelopment has brought a mixed response from local people. A forum on the Manchester Evening News website shows that opinion is divided, with some contributors keen to see the area improved, while others are concerned that houses will become unaffordable and construction jobs outsourced by contractors outside of Salford and Manchester.

One comment states: "I for one applaud the scheme as that area is a disgrace and an embarrassment to Salford and indeed Manchester council", while another says: "we'll never be able to afford to live there."

However, developers claim that the scheme will improve life for local people and will attract more business. According to the BBC, Councillor Derek Antrobus, Salford City Council lead member for planning, said: "This is an ambition of local people and local businesses as well as the local council."

Published by Jo on Friday, 22 January 2010 at 2:30 PM