Life in Salford 52

Have your say on improving housing standards in Salford

Salford City Council is taking an important step to improve housing standards across the city. Councillors have agreed to launch a public consultation on whether a new citywide licensing scheme should be introduced for certain types of shared housing.

The proposal focuses on properties known as Section 257 Houses in Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) - buildings that have been split into flats but did not meet the required building regulations at the time. Early research by council officers has shown that many of these homes suffer from serious problems, including damp, poor maintenance, low energy efficiency and, in many cases, inadequate fire safety. These issues can lead to unsafe and unhealthy living conditions for tenants.

Before any decisions are made, the council wants to hear from the people who know Salford best- its residents. The consultation will gather views from tenants, landlords, local businesses and anyone with an interest in improving housing across the city. All responses will help shape what happens next.

Councillors say it’s vital that everyone has access to safe, secure and good quality accommodation, and community feedback will play a key role in tackling poor housing conditions.

Now is your chance to have your say. The consultation is live until Wednesday 15 April 2026, and your views can help improve living standards across Salford. Take part today, scan the QR code or have your say at: www.salford.gov.uk/hmo-consultation

Have your say

Get support this winter www.salford.gov.uk/col

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LIFE is administered and designed by Salford City Council’s Communications Team. This edition will be distributed week commencing Monday 9 March 2026. Printing: WeAreSeneca. Distributed to more than 130,000 households by Royal Mail and other agencies. Contact: Salford Civic Centre, Swinton, Salford, M27 5FJ. Any leaflets or flyers inserted in or distributed with this magazine do not appear with the partners (listed below) endorsement or agreement and we discourage our distributors from putting material inside your copy of LIFE IN Salford.

A message from the City Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett

Welcome to your latest issue of Life in Salford. As we mark Salford’s centenary year - marking 100 years since Salford was officially granted city status by a Royal Charter from King George V - it feels especially important to reflect on the heritage that defines our city’s history and shaped who we are today.

Our historic buildings and assets tell the story of our communities, our culture and our shared identity, and this year we are making real progress to secure them for the next 100 years.

Buile Hill Mansion is at the heart of this work. Built for Sir Thomas Potter between 1825 and 1827, by Sir Charles Barry, who would later design the Houses of Parliament, the mansion has been a defining landmark in Salford for two centuries. Its connection to novelist Frances Hodgson Burnett, widely believed to have drawn inspiration from the estate for The Secret Garden, adds another layer to its remarkable story.

After years of uncertainty following its closure in 2000, we are now bringing Buile Hill Mansion back into public life. I’m pleased to confirm that Salford’s Register Office will relocate there once restoration is complete. Even more significantly, from April 2026 the mansion will once again host weddings, civil ceremonies and other important family events. It will reclaim its role as a place where people celebrate life’s biggest milestones - something that feels especially fitting as we celebrate our city’s 100th birthday.

Restoring Buile Hill Mansion during our centenary year symbolises our commitment to preserving the best of Salford’s past while investing in its future. It will become a vibrant civic space once again, rooted in history and open to everyone. You can find out more about the mansion, and see images of how it has been carefully restored, on page five. But this is just one facet of much wider heritage work we are continuing to do across the city. Salford Lads Club - one of our most iconic and treasured cultural institutions - recently secured a £437,961 grant, safeguarding its future as both a vital youth centre and an international visitor attraction. This builds on the council’s decision to approve £100,000 of support in 2024. As we celebrate 100 years of city status, it’s fitting that we’re investing in a building that has supported generations of young people and holds such a unique place in global popular culture.

We have also taken firm action to protect heritage at risk. The Crescent pub - an early 19th century Grade II listed site with links to Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels - has faced serious deterioration since closing in 2017. In October, the council issued an Urgent Works Notice to ensure essential repairs were carried out. I’m pleased that the owners responded positively and confirmed they would undertake the necessary works themselves, avoiding the need for the council to step in, providing a strong example of what can be achieved when people work together to protect places that matter to local communities.

Additionally, a recent award of £173,820 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will help residents explore the rich history of their neighbourhoods, train in heritage skills and use digital innovation to capture stories for future generations, as part of our Joining the Dots initiative.

All of this vital work would not have been possible without the resources we have invested in our newly established Salford Heritage Commission. And together, these developments reflect a simple truth: Salford’s heritage is a cornerstone of our identity. It strengthens our communities, inspires pride and helps us understand our place in the world.

As we celebrate 100 years as a city, we are honouring that heritage - not by looking backwards, but by restoring and reimagining it for the next century. Thank you to everyone who continues to champion and protect the places that make our great city of Salford what it is.

City Mayor Paul Dennett

5 easy tips to manage your bins

Looking after your bins doesn’t have to be a headache. By following a few simple steps, we can all help keep Salford’s streets neat, safe, and friendly for everyone. Here are our top five tips for effortless bin management:

1

Label your bin:

Adding your house number to your bin makes it easier for you to find and bring in. You can use stickers, paint or markers to make your bin your own.

4

Stop bin mischief:

Unattended bins can be used for anti-social behaviour or even arson. Also, keep lids closed to keep pests and rain out.

2

Keep pathways clear:

Pop bins out after 7pm the night before collection. After they’ve been emptied, bring your bins back in by 11pm on the day of collection. Leaving them out on the pavement or road can block the way for pedestrians and emergency services.

5

Ask for help if needed:

If it’s hard for you to move your bin because of health or mobility issues, just give the council a ring at 0161 793 2500 or use the ‘Report It’ page at www.salford.gov.uk/reportit

3

Bring your bin in:

Store bins on your own property, not in alleys or shared spaces. Bins left out are more likely to be used the wrong way or filled with stuff that shouldn’t be there. Keeping yours secure helps with recycling and keeps things tidy.

A few quick actions can make a big difference. Thanks for helping keep Salford looking its best!

Buile Hill Mansion set to open its doors!

One of Salford’s most treasured buildings is ready to welcome the public once again. Buile Hill Mansion, the historic Grade II listed gem at the heart of Buile Hill Park, has been lovingly restored and officially reopens this month, ready for Salford residents to rediscover and enjoy for years to come.

Original features, such as the grand staircase and ornate ceilings have been restored so the building keeps the charm and splendour of a bygone era.

The mansion will become the new home of Salford Register Office from Monday 30 March* - the place to go to register births, marriages and deaths.

It will host weddings and functions, with a beautiful ceremony room for up to 80 people and a stylish function room, which will also hold up to 80 people.

On the ground floor of the building, The Secret Garden café will be open 7 days a week, from 8.30am to 2pm weekdays and 9.30am to 2pm weekends. It will have indoor and outdoor seating in the newly landscaped garden, and will serve breakfast, sandwiches, soup, hot and cold drinks, homemade cakes and sweet treats.

There’s also a community room, available to local community groups to hire.

Have a look around

There will be an open day at the mansion on Saturday 21 March, 1pm to 4pm, to go in and look around for the first time. Everyone is welcome!

Contacts

To make an enquiry about a wedding ceremony at Buile Hill Mansion, email: marriages@salford.gov.uk

To make an enquiry about using the function room for your wedding reception, or booking the function room for a party or event, email: venuesinsalford@salford.gov.uk

*Salford Register Office is currently unavailable while the move takes place, apart from the registering of deaths which continue at Salford Civic Centre until Friday 13 March, and begin at Buile Hill Mansion on Wednesday 18 March. All other services will be available at Buile Hill Mansion from Monday 30 March. For full details about the move, please visit www.salford.gov.uk/registerofficemove

Elections 2026 - Plan today to have your say in May

On Thursday 7 May 2026, Salford residents can choose who serves them and their community by voting for a councillor in local elections.

Councillors are elected to represent residents’ views so your vote impacts on the local services people rely on every day. These include waste and recycling, roads and transport, social care, libraries and leisure, parks and green spaces, housing and planning. One councillor from each of the twenty wards is elected to serve a four-year term. Like all ten councils in Greater Manchester, Salford uses the one-third system. This is when a third of seats are contested each year for three years, followed by a ‘fallow’ year when there are no elections, like in 2025.

There are three ways to have your say - vote in a polling station, by post, or by appointing someone you trust to vote on your behalf, known as a proxy vote.

It only takes five minutes to register to vote!

We’re counting on you to have your say.

You must first be registered to vote which can be done online in just five minutes with your National Insurance number. If you have already registered at your address you don’t need to re-register but if you haven’t, visit gov.uk/register-to-vote before Monday 20 April.

Want to vote by post, or have someone you trust vote on your behalf?

If you can upload an image of your handwritten signature, you can apply online for a postal vote salford.gov.uk/postalvote or salford.gov.uk/ proxyvote for a proxy vote. But, if you prefer, you can download a form from our website to complete. You must apply by Tuesday 21 April for a postal vote or Tuesday 28 April for a non-postal proxy vote.

Voter ID

You must show an acceptable form of photo ID to vote in a polling station. If you don’t have one, apply online at salford.gov.uk/voter-id for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) by Tuesday 28 April.

Need help?

If you’re not sure whether you’re already registered to vote, need to request a paper copy of a postal vote application to be posted, or have another query, get in touch.

Call our contact centre on 0161 793 2500, email elections@salford.gov.uk with your request, name and address or pop into your local Gateway centre. Visit salford.gov.uk/gateways for locations and opening times.

Casting your vote

Before election day you will receive a poll card with your polling station location and information about photo ID.

You can vote for as many candidates as there are vacancies in your ward.

All election details including candidates will be at salford.gov.uk/mayelection nearer the time.

New Housing Allocations Policy launched

The council has launched a new Housing Allocations Policy.

This policy sets out how socially rented homes are allocated to people on the housing register. Its overall aim is to ensure that those most in need are given priority, while taking into account local considerations and needs.

Officers have implemented 16 changes from the previous policy. Many of these changes are designed to better support people with the greatest housing needs, including care leavers, those at risk of homelessness, and families living in overcrowded properties.

In addition, the local connection residency requirement has increased from two years to five years. The law provides exemptions for certain groups, including members of the armed forces, individuals fleeing domestic abuse, and people who were accommodated in Salford when they received their Leave to Remain status. Demand for socially rented homes continues to far exceed availability in the city. Fewer than 1,000 homes are advertised or available for let each year through the register, while there are approximately 3,500 households (in total) on the housing register every day.

Read on Salford City Council News site news.salford.gov.uk or scan the QR code.

Salford 100: A Year of Pride, Celebration and Community

This year, Salford turns 100, and the city is ready to celebrate like never before.

In 1926, Salford was officially granted city status by Royal Charter from King George V - a defining moment that shaped a place now known for its resilience, creativity and unmistakable character. A century later, Salford has grown into a bold and thriving modern city, one that honours its roots while looking proudly to its future. We’re marking this milestone, with Salford 100 - a year long, city wide programme packed with culture, creativity and community.

Celebrations with heart –built by Salford, for Salford

At its core, Salford 100 is all about community. The programme has been designed to be rooted in neighbourhoods and shaped by residents - the people who know Salford best. From grassroots groups to local artists, from schoolchildren to lifelong Salfordians, everyone is invited to be part of the celebrations.

A specially commissioned cultural programme - led by creative producers Walk the Plank and From the Otherwill bring Salford’s stories to life across theatre, outdoor spectacle, visual arts and performance. These events will span all eight Salford neighbourhoods, weaving together the city’s past, present and future in vibrant, imaginative ways.

There will be lots going on, with many events yet to be announced so make sure you stay up to date on the Salford 100 website and check for events happening throughout the year!

Your Salford 100 Exhibition

Your Salford 100, a major exhibition at Salford Museum & Art Gallery that you won’t want to miss. Running from Saturday 14 February 2026 to Sunday 10 January 2027, the exhibition brings together 100 objects and artworks from across the museum’s collection - each one chosen by the people of Salford.

Residents, community groups, local partners and museum supporters were invited to select items that tell a story about the city, sparking conversations about Salford’s past, present and future. Expect an eclectic mix of art, social history artefacts, personal reflections and unexpected treasures - all chosen by the communities who know and love the city best.

The Salford Centenary Fund

If you’ve ever had an idea for a community event - a street celebration, a creative workshop, a neighbourhood project or even something entirely new, this is your moment.

The Salford Centenary Fund, launched specially for the anniversary year, is offering grants that are available now for grassroots groups and voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE) to help bring community led events to life between April and December 2026.

The funding is managed by Salford CVS, with support sessions available to help applicants shape their ideas. Visit the Salford 100 website for all the details you need to apply as well as eligibility information.

Celebrate your way, whether it’s performances, exhibitions, cultural or heritage projects, commemorative plaques, storytelling, workshops or celebrations that commemorate Salford’s centenary year - we want to hear from you and help bring your ideas to life!

Meet the Salford Heroes: Who will you nominate?

One of the most exciting parts of the Centenary year is the 100 Salford Heroes project - a city-wide celebration honouring the people who’ve shaped Salford over the last century. From household names like Albert Finney, John Cooper Clarke and Dame Sarah Storey to the everyday champions who keep our communities strong, this initiative shines a spotlight on the true ‘Spirit of Salford’. And now the city needs you! We want residents to nominate your heroes - the neighbour who always steps up, the volunteer who lifts the community, the local legend who deserves recognition. Nominations can be made through the Salford 100 website or by emailing the Salford 100 team at salford100@salford.gov.uk

Once selected, heroes will be interviewed by University of Salford journalism students, with their stories shared across the Salford 100 website, social media and university channels - giving local champions the celebration they truly deserve.

This is your chance to help honour the people who make Salford shine. Nominate someone today - and help tell the stories that define our city.

Salford Centenarians

We want to celebrate our people, if you know someone who will be turning 100 in 2026, let us know so we can celebrate with them and make their day unforgettable! Search 'Salford 100 birthdays' to find out more.

Your city, your celebration

Salford 100 isn’t just a birthday - it’s a testament to the spirit of the city and its people. It’s about reflecting on how far Salford has come, shining a light on the communities that shape it, and looking forward to what the next 100 years could bring.

Don’t miss out on any of the celebrations, sign up to our Salford 100 newsletter today to get the latest news straight to your inbox!

Visit www.salford100.org.uk to explore events and discover how you can get involved

This is our year. Our story. Our Salford. Join in, get inspired, and help make 2026 a year to remember.

OPEN DAY OUR OPEN DAY IS LIKE EVERY

13 JUNE 2026

AWARD-WINNING POET, JARDEL RODRIGUES, UNVEILS POEM CELEBRATING SALFORD RESEARCH

The University of Salford has unveiled an inspiring poem that shines a spotlight on the pioneering research taking place in the city. Written by poet and Salford graduate, Jardel Rodrigues, ‘Roots and Research’ explores the University’s collaborative approach to research - where academics work with charities, businesses and policy makers to tackle some of the hardest to solve challenges in the world around us.

A video performance was filmed at key locations on the University’s campus and across the city of Salford, bringing Jardel’s powerful words to life.

Jardel graduated from Salford with a degree in English and Creative Writing. He is an award-winning multimedia performance poet whose work spans live performance to recorded music. He won the BBC Words First Spoken Word Poetry competition and was chosen by the British Council to represent British poetry in Berlin.

Dr Rachel Woolley, Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange at the University of Salford, said: “At Salford, we’re proud to be rooted in the community, with researchers who are passionate about working with others to find solutions that make a real difference to everyday lives. Jardel is a remarkable poet and his incredible performance captures that with great emotion and creativity.”

SCAN TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

SCAN TO WATCH JARDEL’S PERFORMANCE OF ROOTS AND RESEARCH:

Salford Manbassadors support men’s mental health

A pioneering new project aimed at tackling male suicide and supporting men’s mental health has launched in Salford.

Housing association Salix Homes is leading the roll-out of Salford Manbassadors – a grassroots initiative designed to create a network of trained volunteers, known as ‘Manbassadors’, across the city.

These volunteers are local organisations who provide a safe space for men to talk, listen, and signpost to help when needed. The aim is to break down the stigma around mental health and encourage men to reach out before it’s too late.

The first official Manbassador in Salford is Salford Red Devils Foundation, who have been running a health and wellbeing programme for local men, focusing on positive mental wellbeing, physical fitness and healthy eating.

Paul Trainor, Director of Foundation and Rugby Partnerships at Salford Red Devils Foundation, said: “As a club rooted in the heart of Salford, we’re proud to be the city’s first official Manbassador. The wellbeing of our community is at the centre of everything we do, and we know sport can be a powerful way to bring people together and break down stigma around mental health.”

Find out more

Salix Homes is now calling on more local businesses, community groups and organisations to get involved and pledge their support as Manbassadors.

Kate Burns, Salix Homes Housing Manager and Salford Manbassadors Project Lead, said: “Too many men in our communities are suffering in silence, and the Manbassadors scheme is about breaking down barriers, starting conversations, and letting men know that it’s okay to ask for help.

“We’re proud to bring this important initiative to Salford, and we want to build a strong network of local businesses and organisations who will stand with us as Manbassadors. This could be anywhere men naturally gather – from barber shops, cafes and pubs, to sports clubs, gyms, community centres or workplaces.

“By creating safe spaces in these everyday places, we can reach more men, offer support, and give them the confidence to speak out when they’re struggling. Together, we can make a real difference and support men to live happier, healthier lives.”

For more information about the Salford Manbassadors scheme, including how to get involved as a Manbassador, or to access support, visit: www.salixhomes.co.uk/manbassadors

Step outside, feel better inside

Spring’s a great time to get moving and to enjoy Salford’s green spaces. A short walk lifts your mood, eases stress, supports quitting smoking and protects your heart.

Let Spring inspire you

Walking is one of the simplest ways to boost your wellbeing. Even a 10 minute stroll can help you feel calmer, think more clearly and give you a burst of energy. Being outdoors, especially near trees or water, can reduce stress and improve sleep.

If you took part in Beat the Street last year, you already know the power of small steps. This May, the Greater Manchester Walking Festival returns with free, friendly walks for all ages and abilities. It’s a great way to try new routes, meet new people and enjoy some fresh air.

Take a breath, take a step

Try adding short walks into moments you already have:

• A gentle morning stroll

• Choosing the scenic route to the shops

• Swapping one scrolling break for a loop around the block

If you're cutting down or quitting smoking this spring, walking can help reduce cravings and steady your breathing. Many people find it makes difficult moments feel more manageable.

From pavements to parks

Salford is full of beautiful places to explore. Wander through Worsley Woods, stroll around Salford Quays, or enjoy peaceful canalside paths along the Bridgewater Canal or River Irwell. Blackleach Country Park and Princes Park in Irlam are also perfect for weekend wanders. If you need extra support to help stay motivated and connected, walking groups across the city welcome new members.

Find out more

Find local walking groups at: salford.gov.uk/walking

Get free stop smoking support: salford.gov.uk/stopsmoking

Walk your way to a better day

Regular walking can support a healthier heart, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and help maintain strength and balance as you age. Short, frequent walks are just as effective as longer ones - every step makes a difference.

Salford City Council’s Health Improvement Team’s HAPPI Programme helps families build healthier habits together, from eating well to making small lifestyle changes that support long-term wellbeing. Find out how you can get involved below.

Bowel Cancer Awareness

Bowel cancer is common in the UK. NHS bowel screening helps find it early. People aged 50–74 get a kit every two years, and over-75s can request one on 0800 707 6060.

Dates for your diary

No Smoking Day (11 March) March

Explore GM Walking Festival events: gmwalking.co.uk

Join Salford’s HAPPI programme today: salford.gov.uk/happi

Awareness Month World Immunisation Week (24 to 30 April)

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month Greater Manchester Walking Festival

Salford Family Nurseries

Looking for a welcoming nursery for your child or thinking about working in early years?

Salford Family Nurseries support children and families across the city, with five friendly nursery sites in Barton Moss, Belvedere, Little Hulton, Higher Broughton and Winton.

Our nurseries offer safe and supportive places where children can learn through play, build confidence and develop important skills. Our teams work closely with families to help children get the best possible start in life. We are also recruiting Early Years Practitioners to join our teams. This is a great opportunity for people who enjoy working with children and want a supportive role with training and development. We welcome applications from Level 3 qualified practitioners, and from Level 2 applicants who are willing to work towards their Level 3 qualification.

Whether you are a parent looking for nursery care, or someone thinking about a career in early years, Salford Family Nurseries would love to hear from you. www.salfordfamilynurseries.uk

Cracking down on fly tipping

Fly-tipping is a fast-growing problem in Salford, as it is across the UK. From individuals dumping household waste in alleys, to large scale tipping by unlicensed waste carriers or organised groups, it’s a blight on our communities and we’re committed to stamping it out. Our environmental teams regularly remove fly-tipping and whenever possible search for evidence that can identify those responsible and hold people to account. Over the past five years, we’ve issued 131 fines for flytipping and prosecuted 50 people.

Stepping up action

Over the next few months, we’re increasing our efforts - our neighbourhood managers and local ward councillors have identified 75 locations across the city where fly-tipping is a major, ongoing problem. We’ll be installing bollards, boulders and railings to block access to sites that are frequently targeted and we’ll review our CCTV coverage. Where needed, we’ll look at installing more cameras (along with signage) to deter fly tippers and help identify offenders.

Officers will carry out regular inspections of vulnerable sites to make sure they’re secure and free of fly tipping and talk to people about the best way to dispose of their rubbish.

We’ll also be working with housing organisations and other partners to keep their spaces clean and litter free.

How can you help?

Take any waste that doesn’t fit in your bins to a household waste recycling centre, find your nearest one at www.recycleforgreatermanchester.com

If you use a waste carrier to take away your items, always ask to see their licence and ask for a receipt. You can take a photo of their registration number if you are in any doubt. Together we can stamp it out!

Introducing our Hate Crime Reporting Ambassadors

Hate has no home here.

That’s our message and as part of our commitment to tackling hate crime in Salford we’ve launched a new scheme to make it easier for people to report it, with support from Greater Manchester Police and Victim Support.

Hate crime is currently under reported and there are many reasons for this. Over 100 people have trained to become Hate Crime Reporting Ambassadors and will act as trusted points of contact within their communities and workplaces.

A hate crime is a criminal offence, such as property damage, assault or harassment that was motivated by hostility towards someone's identity, whether that’s because they have a disability or because of their ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or transgender identity.

Reporting hate crime helps the police understand the scale of the problem and could prevent the incident from escalating or happening to someone else. It can also help victims get support and bring perpetrators to justice.

If you, or someone you know has experienced a hate crime, you can report this to police on their website www.gmp.police.uk or by calling 101 or in an emergency 999. Alternatively you can contact a Hate Crime Reporting Ambassador. Find out more at www.salford.gov.uk/hcra

Salford Handyperson Service: Helping residents stay safe at home

Keeping on top of small repairs at home isn’t always easy. If left, minor issues can turn into safety or security problems.

Salford City Council’s Handyperson Service, delivered by DASCO Construction, provides minor home repairs and maintenance to help residents live safely and independently at home.

Some residents may be eligible for a free property maintenance check and minor repairs, helping to reduce safety, security and maintenance risks in the home.

Free support is available to homeowners who:

• are aged over 65 and receive a means-tested benefit

• have an illness or disability and receive a means-tested benefit

• are a low-income family with a child under five and receive a meanstested benefit

For other residents who meet the age, disability or family criteria, the service can also offer low-cost, paid-for repairs.

All work is carried out by DBS-checked operatives, with safety and security issues prioritised.

The service is for private sector residents only. This includes homeowners and some private renters. Where rented it will only cover items that the landlord is not responsible for.

To find out more or to check whether the service is right for you, visit salford.gov.uk/handyperson or call 0161 793 3445.