Residents have been invited to have their say on plans to develop an area of playing fields in Salford.
New plans have been unveiled showing what sports facilities near the University of Salford could look like with significant investment – and Salfordians have been asked to share their opinions at a consultation.
Developers have tabled proposals which would see a 3G all-weather football pitch, a new 2G all-weather sand pitch for hockey, tennis and recreational 11-a-side football built on the grounds of David Lewis Playing Fields.
The work would form part of the Crescent Development Framework (‘CDF’), which outlines the plans for the regeneration of the 240-acre Crescent Salford area, led by Salford Council alongside the University of Salford and developer ECF.
Planners are poised to submit their application for new sports pitches on the David Lewis playing site, but say they are encouraging feedback from locals.
Modular changing facilities, accessible parking spaces and new vehicular and pedestrian access would be installed if the plans are greenlighted by the council.
Planners will be present at an in-person consultation due to take place at the University of Salford’s Chapman Building on Thursday 12 February, 4-7pm.
Improved lighting, signage, sustainable surface water drainage measures and landscaping also form part of the proposals, which developers confirmed meet the University’s commitment to delivering biodiversity net gain together with other ecological enhancements.
Mark Wantling, Chief Infrastructure Officer at the University of Salford, hailed the move to improve the sports facilities near the education centre.
He said that the proposed upgrades will allow for the pitches to be used by more people, more of the time and for a wider variety of sports.
“We are keen to increase participation and engagement in sports and physical activity by students, staff and the local community. Our vision for the David Lewis Playing Fields will open them up to more members of the community and will enable increased use of the sports pitches, especially over winter,” he explained.
“The changes will also enhance the environment of the playing fields. By increasing native planting and adding more effective lighting and landscaping, we’ll help to make the area generally more welcoming.”
Anyone who is interested can provide feedback by filling out the online questionnaire, emailing DLPF@asteerplanning.com or by writing to David Lewis Playing Fields, Asteer Planning, Calico, 53-55 Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3HQ.
More information about the proposals can be found on the Asteer Planning website.
