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LIFE is administered and designed by Salford City Council’s Communications Team. This edition will be distributed week commencing Monday 24 November 2025. 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.
Cover image: Image of a multi-coloured light artwork installation at Salford Quays as part of Lightwaves festival. Photo provided by Lightwaves, captured by Liz West.
In 2026, Salford will mark a once-in-a-lifetime milestone: 100 years since we officially became a city. It’s a moment in time, which none of us, nor our children or grandchildren will see and experience again and an opportunity to positively contribute to our city’s progressive social and political history and heritage. And it’s a moment we intend to celebrate in true Salford style: with spirit, pride, purpose, and people at the heart.
Salford’s centenary isn’t just about bunting and fireworks. It’s about our residents, families, children and young people and communities telling their stories of Salford: past, present and future. From the 'Dirty Old Town' of mills, docks and factories that shaped our industrial working-class roots, to the vibrant, passionate and diverse communities that continue to define us today, Salford’s journey is one of resilience, radicalism, creativity and innovation, imbued with a strong sense of community, solidarity and everyone collectively working for the public good.
Salford is a city that’s always acknowledged and believed that by working together we can create something that’s greater than the sum of its parts. The centenary offers us a unique opportunity to tell the stories of Salford, stories which can often be hidden or untold and a chance to celebrate our everyday and often unsung heroes and heroines of our great city!
We’ve grown into a city of genuine international standing, home to world-class media, arts, education and innovation. But through it all, one thing has remained constant: the strength and character of our people. From Ordsall to Little Hulton, Cadishead to Broughton, every town, neighbourhood and community within our city’s eclectic and vibrant tapestry brings their own identities, cultures, histories, including those which may be untold, hidden or forgotten. Our centenary is a chance to immortalise and celebrate all of this in true Spirit of Salford style.
Throughout 2026, Salford will come alive with a citywide programme of events and activities, a programme shaped by the people of Salford, for the people of Salford. You’ll see it in parks, schools, libraries, sports grounds, community centres and streets. Not behind museum glass, but in plain sight; where every one of our residents can see themselves reflected and respected.
A message from the City Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett
Expect exhibitions, memory projects, and creative commissions that honour our heritage. Expect bold bids for UNESCO Creative City status and Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture. Expect neighbourhood-led celebrations that showcase the humour, honesty and heart that make Salford special.
And this isn’t just about looking back. It’s about looking forward. The centenary will be a catalyst for lasting change, creating opportunities for volunteering, training and education, and supporting our flourishing creative economy. It’s an investment in people, in belonging, and in the future of our city.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team is already working with partners across Salford, from our schools and the university, to local businesses, sports clubs, trade unions and community organisations. Elected members will play a key role too, helping ensure every single ward in the city has a voice in shaping this once-in-a-century moment.
Salford’s city motto is "The welfare of the people is the highest law", and we abide by the spirit of this whilst organising our centenary celebrations. All of you, as residents of our great city are invited to contribute and be a part of it.
In 1926, Salford had to fight to become a city. Some said we were too small, not important enough. But ordinary, working Salfordians proved them wrong. Now, in 2026, we have the chance to show not just how far we’ve come, but how ready we are for the century ahead.
Find out more about our centenary and how you can get involved on pages eight and nine.
This is our story. Let’s make it count.
City Mayor Paul Dennett
Rinse it. Bin it. Recycled!
Plastic pots, tubs and trays go in your brown bin
As the dark nights draw in, lots of us are cosying up with comfort food and treats. Chocolate tubs, gravy pots and party food trays are just some of the items that can all be recycled in your brown bin. You can still recycle plastic bottles, glass bottles and jars, cans, tins, aerosols and foil in the brown bin.
Top tips for your brown bin
• Make sure things you recycle are empty and clean, leftover food can stop it from being recycled
• Stack things like yoghurt pots and meat trays to save space in your bin
• Choose to reuse pots with lids like ice cream, they’re great for overnight oats or saving your leftovers
What to do with other types of plastic
Plastic bags, wrap and crisp packets go in your black bin, or you can take them to most large supermarkets to be recycled Hard plastics like old broken toys and old plastic furniture can be recycled at any of our 20 recycling centres across Greater Manchester including Cobden Street and Lumns Lane. For more information about what you can recycle at home visit www.salford.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling/
Restored mansion to open in Spring
The wait is nearly over! After almost two years of careful restoration, the much-loved Buile Hill Mansion will open its doors to the public in Spring.
At the heart of Buile Hill Park, the mansion will be Salford’s newest wedding venue, with an impressive ceremony room and a function room for 80 guests. It will also be the new home of Salford Register Office and will have a café and a community room.
Final touches are being made inside the building this month, before work begins on the rear garden, paths and road outside the mansion.
Bookings are now being taken for weddings and functions. To enquire about a wedding or civil partnership ceremony email marriages@salford.gov.uk or to hire the function room email venuesinsalford@salford.gov.uk You can find out more at venuesinsalford.co.uk
Council services at Christmas
Gateway opening hours for Customer Services, the Spirit of Salford Helpline and Right Care Right Person helpline.
Christmas Eve: Gateways open 8am to 4.30pm. Helplines open 8.30am to 4.30pm
Christmas Day, Boxing Day: Closed
Saturday 27 December: 9am to 1pm: Helplines closed
Sunday 28 December: Closed
Monday 29 December: 10am to 4pm
New Years Eve: 10am to 4pm
New Years Day: Closed
The Spirit of Salford Helpline number is 0800 952 1000
To find your nearest gateway centre visit www.salford.gov.uk/gateways
Refuse and recycling arrangements for the Christmas period
Please note:
No collection will take place on Your replacement collection date is
Thursday 25 December 2025
Friday 26 December 2025
Thursday 1 January 2026
Saturday 20 December 2025
Saturday 27 December 2025
Saturday 3 January 2026
Don’t forget to recycle your wrapping paper, tinfoil, bottles, cans, plastic pots, tubs, trays and left-over food www.salford.gov.uk/recycling
How to recycle your Christmas tree
You can take your artificial Christmas trees to your local recycling centre. You can recycle your real Christmas tree either:
1. By taking it to your local recycling centre
2. By chopping it into pieces and putting them in your food and garden pink-lidded bin. Please take off the base or wooden block if your tree has one and make sure the trunk is not thicker than your wrist. Wood thicker than your wrist is too big and can’t be put in your pink lidded bin. You can take large trunks and wooden bases to your local recycling centre.
3. By arranging for it to be collected and recycled by the Just Helping charity go to just-helping.org.uk/register-tree for details.
Putting children and young people at the heart of Salford
Salford is joining other cities across the country – and across the world – in becoming a ‘Child Friendly City’. We’re building on all the great things that are going on in Salford right now for children and young people, and taking the next step towards making Salford an even better city to grow up in.
We asked Mark Greenhalgh, Salford’s Youth Mayor, to write this article about what ‘Child Friendly Salford’ is and what it means to him…
Growing up in Salford, the city has always been known for its strong sense of community. Young people are a huge part of that, bringing fresh ideas, energy and ambition. Becoming a Child Friendly City is the council’s way of making sure every young person’s voice is heard, helping to create a better future for the city.
Child Friendly Salford is an initiative that puts young people at the centre of decision-making in Salford. It ensures that their voices and ideas influence the services, spaces, and opportunities that shape their daily lives, from schools and libraries to mental health support, parks, and the wider local environment. By involving young people in planning and decision-making, the initiative aims to create a city where children and young people can grow up safe, supported, and able to reach their full potential.
This is a city-wide effort, with the council working closely with partners such as schools, youth organisations, local businesses, the NHS, housing providers, and the University of Salford. Most importantly, it involves actively seeking the views of young people on the city. Their perspectives bring fresh ideas to the table and help ensure that Salford develops in a way that reflects the needs, ambitions, and
Even though Child Friendly Salford is a new programme, Salford already has a strong tradition of young people having their say on decisions that affect them. This is most clearly seen through Salford Youth Council, a youthled body that represents young people and holds the council and its leaders to account. Alongside this, the Youth Mayor provides a platform at the highest level, working with local representatives to ensure young people’s ideas and concerns are acted upon. In March, Salford will welcome its 10th Youth Mayor, marking a decade of young people shaping the city and influencing change.
Overall, Salford’s ambition to become a Child Friendly City will continue this tradition and have a lasting impact on its young residents.
We’re currently asking children and young people what they want to see - what would make a difference to their lives, and what changes and improvements could we make?
Our plans will be based on what they’ve told us - children and young people will be at the heart of everything we do. You can find more information and a link to the online form at childfriendlysalford.co.uk
Or scan the QR code and let us know online
Photo (L to R): Jackson Walton, Salford Youth Parliament, Councillor Joshua Brooks, Executive Support Member for Education, Learning and School Improvement, Councillor Jim Cammell, Lead Member for Children’s and Young People’s Services, Betws Redgrave, Deputy Youth Mayor, Mark Greenhalgh, Youth Mayor, Ryan Matope, Salford Youth Parliament, Stephen Young, Chief Executive, Salford City Council.
Festive fun in Salford
Exhibition: Exploring the Collection: Colour – Discover a rainbow of art and objects in this vibrant exhibition celebrating colour and its emotional impact. From bold ceramics to striking costumes, each gallery space explores how colour connects to culture, history and wellbeing. Dates: Until Sunday 11 January 2026. Location: Salford Museum and Art Gallery, The Crescent. Free.
Theatre: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - Step into the magical world of Narnia in this spectacular stage adaptation of the beloved novel. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter on an unforgettable journey filled with wonder, bravery and enchantment. Dates: Wednesday 3 December 2025 to Sunday 11 January 2026. Location: Lowry, Salford Quays. See Lowry website for ticket information.
Theatre: Unfortunate – The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch. The critically acclaimed parody musical returns to the Lowry for a five-week Christmas season. Dive into Ursula’s side of the story in this splash-hit show packed with original pop songs, outrageous humour and underwater sass. Don’t miss the hottest night out this festive season! Dates: Friday 5 December 2025 to Sunday 11 January 2026. Location: Lowry, Salford Quays. See Lowry website for ticket information (16+).
Festival: Lightwaves – Digital light festival returns to Salford Quays packed with new commissions, local and international artists. Dates: Thursday 4 December to Sunday 7 December 2025, 4pm to 10pm. No booking required, just turn up and enjoy! Location: MediaCity and Salford Quays, Salford. Free.
Festival: RHS Glow - Discover the magic of Christmas at the RHS Glow illuminations. Go on an enchanting journey around RHS Garden Bridgewater and see muchloved garden areas awash with colour against the dark sky night. Dates: Wednesday 26 November to Tuesday 30 December 2025. Location: RHS Garden Bridgewater, Worsley. See RHS Bridgewater website for tickets and information.
DO YOU LIVE IN SALFORD?
A Year of Pride, Celebration and Community
Get ready, Salford - something truly special is coming your way in 2026. Our city is turning 100, and we’re marking the occasion with a yearlong celebration that promises to be unforgettable.
What’s happening?
Salford 100 is more than just a celebration - it’s a movement. It’s about bringing people together, telling our stories, and showing the world what makes Salford so special.
Salford 100 is your chance to be part of something big. From street parties and exhibitions to storytelling and arts festivals, the programme will be rooted in our neighbourhoods and led by the people who know Salford best - you.
In 1926, Salford was officially granted city status by Royal Charter from King George V, following a passionate campaign backed by Home Secretary William Joynson-Hicks. Fast forward a century, and Salford has transformed. From its industrial roots to its modern-day reputation as a hub of creativity, culture and innovation, Salford is a city that’s proud, diverse and full of life. And in 2026, we’re celebrating all of it - past, present and future - with Salford 100, a year-long programme of events and celebrations.
A celebration for everyone
Salford 100 isn’t just about looking back - it’s about celebrating who we are today and imagining what we can become. The programme will include:
• A cultural programme, led by creative producers Walk the Plank and From the Other, bringing Salford’s stories to life through art, performance and community collaboration that reflect Salford’s soul
• A civic programme, with events and programmes that honour our history, celebrate our identity and shine a light on the people who’ve shaped our city
• Community activities, supporting local groups, organisations and residents to host their own events – from park anniversaries and street parties to community-led projects
This is a celebration built by Salford, for Salford.
Your City, Your Story
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett told us:
“As Salford approaches its centenary year, we proudly reflect on a city shaped by bold ideas and bold people. Over the decades, Salford has led with firsts, from pioneering public services to cultural achievements, and those foundations continue to inspire our future.”
“The launch of the Salford Centenary programme is more than symbolic: it’s an invitation. To every resident, community group, school, and business: step forward, share your story, and add your voice to our city’s celebration.”
How can you get involved?
• Share your ideas through the online survey
• Sign up to the Salford 100 newsletter
• Apply for funding to host your own community event
• Use the Salford 100 toolkit to promote local celebrations
Whether you want to organise a street party, create a piece of art, or simply join in the fun, there’s a place for you in Salford 100.
Let’s make history – together
2026 will be a year to remember. It’s a chance to come together, take pride in our city, and celebrate everything that makes Salford special - our people, our places, our stories.
So mark your calendars, spread the word, and start thinking about how you’ll be part of Salford 100. Because this isn’t just a celebration of the past - it’s the beginning of a new chapter.
Let’s make it one to be proud of.
Salford 100 –
A Century of City Pride
Visit www.salford100.org.uk to get involved.
DECEMBER
salford.ac.uk/open-days
UNIVERSITY TO SERVE PADEL IN SALFORD
The University of Salford is planning to open its rst Padel courts as part of an exciting new partnership.
Soul Padel will lead the planning application and run the courts for use by students, sta and the local community if permission is granted. Padel is said to be one of the fastest growing sports in the world and is a cross between tennis and squash.
We are really excited to be providing a facility that we know will be really popular with students, sta and local residents.
The University of Salford’s Mark Wantling says: “We are undertaking a major regeneration of our campus to improve it for everybody, and upgrading our sporting o er is part of that. These are the University’s rst Padel courts, and we are really excited to be providing a facility that we know will be really popular with students, sta and local residents too.”
If planning is granted, four new padel courts will be located on the University’s Wallness Lane land. The project is part of the University’s overall regeneration of its campus around Peel Park and Frederick Road, which will improve its buildings, grounds and services for everyone to enjoy.
Mark Hewlett, Founder and CEO of Soul Padel says: “We’re proud to be supporting the next generation in moving more, playing more, and connecting more, both on campus and beyond.”
Salford City Radio crowned Springboard Heroes winner
A much-loved community radio station is celebrating 18 years on the airwaves with a vital funding boost, after being named the winner of this year’s Springboard Heroes Awards.
Salford City Radio has been crowned the Springboard Heroes 2025 winner in the annual awards organised by housing association Salix Homes.
After a month-long public vote, it was a close contest between the three finalists - Alberts of Salford sporting facility, Red Hot Flames dance squad and Salford City Radio.
The radio station, which broadcasts from a studio at Salford Civic Centre in Swinton, wins a £1,000 cash boost. It’s also a double celebration, as the station celebrated its 18th birthday on 30 September.
Station manager Jill Bowyer said: “Winning the Springboard Heroes Award is an incredible boost for everyone at Salford City Radio. This funding comes at a crucial time and will help us continue broadcasting, supporting our volunteers, and serving the community.
“Celebrating our 18th birthday alongside this win makes it even more special - it’s the best present we could ask for. We’re so grateful to Salix Homes, and to everyone who voted for us - your support means the world and shows just how much our station matters to the people of Salford.”
Salford City Radio is run by a network of volunteers and relies on grants, advertising, sponsorship and fundraising to keep its vital programming alive and accessible to the community. For many of the station’s volunteers, who range in age from 18 to 80, the station is not just a hobby, but a lifeline, providing a platform for diverse voices and giving them a sense of purpose, community and support.
Apply for Springboard funding
Springboard Heroes Awards are all about celebrating the incredible local groups and projects that make a real difference across Salford. Congratulations to our worthy winners, Salford City Radio. We hope this extra funding, along with the support of everyone who voted, gives the station a vital boost.”
Salix Homes, which owns 8,000 homes across Salford, is a long-standing supporter of Salford City Radio, and has its own show ‘Let’s Talk Housing’ which airs every Wednesday at 10am. Tune in at 94.4fm.
Salix Homes has donated more than £33,000 to dozens of local groups and initiatives across Salford this year as part of its Springboard community grant programme, which provides much-needed cash injections to local projects that boost community spirit, promote health and wellbeing, reduce isolation and improve the environment.
To find out more and apply for a Springboard grant, visit www.salixhomes.co.uk/springboard
Liam Turner, Chief Executive at Salix Homes, said: “The
Salford City Radio volunteers Jane Wood and Mike Scantlebury.
Kate Burns (left) and Keman Allen (right), from Salix Homes, present the Springboard Heroes winners cheque to Jill Bowyer, Station Manager at Salford City Radio.
Salford smashes
Beat the Street challenge –
Salford has been on the move! Throughout September, October and November, more than 18,000 residents took part in Beat the Street Salford, clocking up over 80,000 miles - that’s the equivalent of circling the globe nearly three times! From schoolchildren to community groups, workplaces to families, the city has embraced this fun, free challenge that turned everyday journeys into a giant interactive game.
The initiative, commissioned by the Bupa Foundation with support from Salford City Council, Canal & River Trust, and Sport England, aimed to get people moving, exploring their local area, and connecting with nature. Players tapped special Beat Boxes across the city using cards or the app, earning points for themselves and their teams. Along the way, they discovered new routes, enjoyed friendly competition, and contributed to a greener Salford, with hundreds of trees set to be planted as part of the project.
Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith, Lead Member for Culture, Heritage, Equalities, Sports and Leisure, said:
“It’s great to see so many people, of all ages, involved in the game, and we want to support them to keep active and leave the car at home after the game has concluded.”
Councillor Mishal Saeed, Executive Support Member for Social Care and Mental Health, added:
“It has been wonderful to see so many people outdoors on foot, seeking points. The Beat the Street game has proved to be a positive initiative that will enable people to be more active and get outdoors together.”
Keeping the Beat going: tips for staying active
Set simple goals – Start small - aim for a 10-minute walk each day and build from there.
Explore Salford's green spaces – From Peel Park to the Bridgewater Canal, there’s no shortage of scenic routes
Buddy up – Walking with friends or colleagues makes it social and fun
Track your progress – Use free apps or a simple journal to log your steps.
Join local activities – Look out for walking groups, park runs, or cycling clubs
Make it fun – Try nature spotting, themed walks, or
Every step counts. Beat the Street has shown what Salford can achieve together. Let’s keep that energy alivebecause the real prize is a healthier, happier community.
For more ideas and local resources, visit beatthestreet.me/salford and www.salford.gov.uk/movemore
Could you join the fostering family in Salford and offer a loving and safe home for children in care? We’re looking for local people to support children in their community, helping young people stay in their school and with the places and people they know. We offer allowances, lots of training and support for carers.
We’ve been working with all ten councils in Greater Manchester on a campaign called Foster for Greater Manchester to recruit foster carers. As part of this a fourminute film has been produced to inspire more people to be the difference to local children and young people.
The video shows the journey of Tom, a young person who makes choices and goes back into sports with support from his foster carers. It shows the real difference our foster carers make every day through their support and guidance. Even the smallest acts of kindness and encouragement with young people and children can play a big role in their future lives.
To watch the film visit www.salford.gov.uk/foster
To find out more about fostering visit: fosterforgm.com/salford call on 0300 303 0321 or email enquire@fosterforgm.com
New social rent and rough sleeper homes for Salford
Thirteen new homes for social rent and eight rough sleeper units are ready to be let out in Salford.
The homes, located on Tootal Grove in Weaste and Seedley, have now been transferred from Salford City Council to Dérive, the council’s own housing company.
On top of this the first six affordable homes on Longshaw Drive have been transferred from Salford City Council to Dérive. The remaining 93 affordable homes will follow, including 46 at social rent.
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “It is fantastic news to see these social rent homes transferred and ready for people to move in. I made a firm commitment that in this term of office I would provide more truly affordable homes, and these units are just one small tranche of a pipeline of affordable homes coming forward, helping us to deliver on our commitment to build 600 new council homes over the next four years."
Councillor Tracy Kelly added: “The extra eight apartments for those at most risk of homelessness will be a lifeline for those who move into them. The wraparound support that comes with homes like these will help people rebuild their lives.
“We’re absolutely determined to tackle this national housing crisis head-on and ensure that local people, particularly those at risk of homelessness, have access to a safe, secure, and affordable place to live.”
ARE YOU A FORHOUSING TENANT?
If you are experiencing damp in your home, it’s important that you let us know so we can fix it as soon as possible. The quickest and easiest way to let us know is by using our online portal at www.forhousing.co.uk/repairs/ repair-reporter
0300 123 55 22
Check out our website for how to spot the signs of damp and mould and learn more about how we can help make your home safe, and secure. If you
£18,000 funding for community groups to help Salford men’s mental health
Salford Men’s Mental Health Commission has awarded £18,000 to seven community groups and a Women's Mental Health Fund has also been launched.
The commission was set up because many men don’t seek help and may be struggling to cope. The commission included men from different communities, Mandem Meetup, Talk About It Mate and Jamie Horrocks Trust. It was facilitated by Healthwatch Salford and funded by the council and Salford Integrated Care Partnership with support from Salford CVS.
Councillor Mishal Saeed, Executive Support Social Care and Mental Health, said: “We’re committed to providing focussed local support to improve mental health and wellbeing. We want everyone to know there is help for what they’re facing mentally.”
Sam Cook, Chief Officer at Healthwatch Salford said: “Poor mental health has a huge impact on people’s lives. We hope these projects will make a real difference.”
The men’s projects are:
First Kick CIC T/A First Kick Foundation - Salford Wellbeing Transitions Programme
Emmaus - Cultivating Wellbeing: A Garden Space for Men’s Mental Health
Swinton Lions Community Sports Foundation - Lions Walking Rugby in the Park Project
Talk About It Mate - Out and About Broughton Boxing Academy - Buddy Builders.
We Are Survivors - Nature and Nurture: Survivors Tips
Jak's World Charity - Empowering young men through football
For more information visit www.salfordcvs.co.uk or email honor.johnstone@salfordcvs.co.uk
Major £10 million upgrade to improve customer facilities and accessibility at Salford Central station completed
A major £10m upgrade to deliver a better customer experience and improve accessibility at Salford Central station has been completed, making journeys easier for everyone – from disabled passengers and older people to those travelling with pushchairs or heavy luggage.
Led by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), in collaboration with Network Rail and Northern Trains, the station improvements include a new customer ticket office, accessible toilets and a covered walkway from the lift on platform one.
The works at Salford’s largest railway station also include a new roof on the upper level of the building, improvements to the platforms and ramps, as well as more inclusive passenger information on display, such as a braille map.
Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, said:
“This much-needed investment in our local rail network and stations is something we have worked closely with partners in the city to secure.
“The works at Salford Central will make it much easier for all passengers to use the station and improve their journeys. This is all part of our wider plans to create a fairer, greener and more inclusive city for all with access to great public transport that connects people with where they need to be.”
