Peel Media Proposes Promenade for The Quays

Trafford Wharf could have a new architecturally-designed walkway, under a planning submission made this week.

MediaCityUK developer Peel Media has applied to Trafford Council for permission to construct a pedestrian promenade and public realm area in front of Imperial War Museum North.

Designed by London-based practice FoRM Associates, the proposals show a stepped area built over the current canal embankment, providing a walkway and informal seating area leading down to the water’s edge.

The improvements would extend the existing Trafford canalside promenade to the new foot bridge currently being built as part of Phase 1 of MediaCityUK (which will link the Salford and Trafford sides of The Quays). The promenade would create a walking circuit, taking in the MediaCityUK piazza, The Lowry and Imperial War Museum North, enhancing the role of The Quays as a visitor destination

The promenade is part of the Irwell City Park project which is being co-ordinated by Central Salford Urban Regeneration Company, in partnership with the three local authorities – Salford, Manchester and Trafford, and the Northwest Regional Development Agency. Irwell City Park will link The Quays with central Manchester along a new pedestrian and cycle-friendly waterside route.

Phase 1 of MediaCityUK is due for completion in 2011, although the first residents will start moving in from spring 2010.