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Cover image: An image of the Lowry at Salford Quays with blue skies in the background
LIFE is administered and designed by Salford City Council’s Communications Team. This edition will be distributed week commencing 9 June 2025. Printing: Swan Print Limited. 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.
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Welcome to your latest issue of Life in Salford.
I’m pleased to be writing to you as Salford celebrates the 25th anniversary of Lowry, an opportune moment to reflect on how the arts, culture and creativity have shaped the city’s remarkable transformation. From its rich artistic legacy to pioneering regeneration initiatives, Salford has become a leading example of how creative investment can revitalise communities and drive economic growth.
Cultural roots run deep in Salford. Whether through legendary figures like L.S. Lowry, Elkie Brooks, or Albert Finney, or modern icons like The Smiths and The Happy Mondays, the city has always punched above its weight in producing creative talent. Today, that legacy continues to thrive and evolve.
Opened in 2000, Lowry was born from a radical vision: to create a flagship arts venue that would anchor the regeneration of Salford Quays. Spearheaded by bold political leadership, this project helped turn derelict docklands into one of the most successful regeneration stories in Europe. As a cultural catalyst, Lowry has been central to attracting institutions like the BBC and catalysing the development of MediaCityUK, transforming the Quays into the biggest tech, media and innovation hub outside of London.
Culture has been firmly anchored in the city’s story of regeneration and reinvention, attracting significant inward investment and new national visitor attractions such as the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra and the RHS’s first urban garden in the North (including free entrance for Salford residents on Tuesdays) which you can read more about on page nine. Over the past two decades, cultural initiatives such as these have helped generate £1.3 billion in economic activity, nearly doubling since 2001.
Major events like We Invented the Weekend, which drew 60,000 visitors in 2023, Sounds from the Other City, which celebrated its 20th birthday this year, and longstanding community celebrations like the UK Chinese Dragon Boat Festival and the Pink Picnic, bring energy, diversity, and economic vitality to the city.
A message from the City Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett
The creative dynamism of Salford beats throughout the city. Grassroots venues such as Islington Mill, the White Hotel and Paradise nurture local talent, while the city is home to unique, historic institutions such as the Working Class Movement Library, Salford Lads Club and Salford Museum and Art Gallery. Meanwhile, public realm developments at Middlewood Locks and the Crescent Salford are ensuring culture remains central to urban planning, placemaking and how we animate the city and improve our public realm.
A key part of this cultural ecosystem is Lowry, celebrating not only the artistic genius of L.S. Lowry but the collective creativity of Salford’s communities. Over 25 years, it has hosted everything from West End shows to local productions, run one of the UK’s most successful volunteer programmes, and provided outreach to over 22,000 under-served residents last year alone. It stands as a living, breathing example of our city’s ethos: that culture is for everyone.
To mark its anniversary, Lowry has launched a new immersive digital experience of L.S Lowry’s iconic ‘Going to the Match’ painting, further strengthening Salford’s reputation as a home of innovation at the intersection of the artistic, creative and digital sectors. Read more about this on page eight.
Salford’s cultural journey is far from over. With ongoing investments, bold ambitions, and unwavering commitment, the city is continuing to protect and expand opportunities for people to engage with arts and culture. In a world facing financial, social and environmental challenges, Salford’s experience stands as a testament to the transformative power of people brought together by our collective endeavours to build on the momentum of Lowry and create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Happy 25th Birthday to Lowry - and here’s to the future of a city that puts culture, art and creativity firmly at the heart of everything it does.
City Mayor Paul Dennett
Scan the QR code to apply and find guidance on eligibility and what can be funded under the ‘How to Apply’ section.
If you want any further information or have a query, don’t hesitate to get in touch via mail@salfordfoundationtrust. org.uk.
Don’t let limited family finances be a barrier to ambition for young Salfordians
The Salford Foundation Trust has funding available to support ambitious young people in the city.
The Salford Foundation Trust funds children and young people who want to develop their hobbies, interests and skills where family finances are limited. Since 2004, we have supported over 850 young people facing financial barriers, helping them to access new opportunities and progress further in their talents.
The Trust has previously worked with aspiring athletes, musicians and performers, as well as those looking to develop employability skills or purchase necessary equipment. This is not an exhaustive list - the support provided really is dependent on the needs of each young person.
Applications are open to individuals aged between 5-25 years old who have lived in Salford for 3+ years. If you are applying on behalf of more than one person, you must fill out an application form for each of them.
SCAN ME
New funding boosts Salford’s green spaces
Parks across Salford are benefitting from new facilities, including a pump track, new outdoor gyms and ‘litter lockers’.
The pump track, which is being built in Cadishead Park, will be suitable for cyclists of all ages and skill levels and can also be used by scooters, skateboards and inline skates. A similar pump track was built in Peel Park, Little Hulton in 2021 and has proved to be popular with people of all ages and abilities. The multi-use sports area at Cadishead Park will also be refurbished, creating a sporting hub with football pitches and a bowling green.
Parr Fold, Lightoaks, St Simons Street and Albert Park have all benefitted from brand new outdoor gym equipment, ideal for getting active in the great outdoors and enjoying nature.
Ten parks now have ‘litter lockers’, stocked with litterpicking equipment, including bin bags, gloves and litter pickers. The lockers help make volunteering easier and more convenient for the volunteers, community groups, and the city’s ‘Friends of’ groups who help keep the parks clean and tidy. The lockers can be accessed 24/7 with a code.
Get involved
If you want to get involved in volunteering in your local park, Salford Rangers have a range of weekday and weekend opportunities. Volunteers can choose to become qualified by attending a free training course and undertaking a series of task days. If you want to know more, contact Salford Rangers by emailing rangers@ salford.gov.uk. Local Friends groups are always looking for volunteers too. Find out more at salford.gov.uk/ parks-and-open-spaces/volunteering/
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025!
Get ready Salford, the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 is heading to England, and Salford Community Stadium will be right at the heart of the action, hosting four thrilling pool matches.
Match days in Salford:
Saturday 23 August
Australia vs Samoa | Scotland vs Wales
Saturday 30 August
Canada vs Wales | Scotland vs Fiji
Grab your tickets now at: rugbyworldcup.com/2025/en
This is your chance to witness the very best teams in the world battling it out live on your doorstep. Don’t miss epic match-ups like Scotland vs Wales and Canada vs Wales this August.
With 16 teams, eight host cities, and more access than ever before, this year’s tournament promises to be the biggest and most exciting Women’s Rugby World Cup yet. It’s not just about the games - it’s about inspiring the next generation and celebrating the power of women’s sport.
Salford is proud to be part of this historic moment. Whether you're a die-hard rugby fan or brand new to the game, there's never been a better time to get involved.
SCAN ME
SCAN ME
MUSIC WORKSHOPS BOUNCY CASTLE
Buile Hill Mansion
transformation steps up
Exciting plans to transform the Grade II listed Buile Hill Mansion into a stunning wedding venue are taking shape.
The original grand staircase is being restored back to its former glory, and ornate ceilings are being carefully refurbished to keep the splendour and character of the building.
The mansion will be available for weddings and functions from early 2026, with a ceremony room for up to 80 people and a separate function room, also for up to 80 people. The newly refurbished Buile Hill Park Hall, next to the mansion, is available for larger weddings and functions. The gardens at the back of the mansion are being landscaped and will make the perfect spot for wedding photos, and a new car park next to the mansion is almost complete.
As well as a wedding venue, the mansion, which is at the heart of Buile Hill Park, will be the new home of Salford Register Office. It will also have a café on the ground floor, and a community room for local groups to book for meetings and activities.
Generations of Salfordians visited the mansion when it was a mining museum, and many talk about the lift shaft that went down, but actually never moved! The mining museum closed its doors in 2000 and the mansion lay empty until late in 2023 when the building work started to bring it back to life.
Photo credits: Buile Hill Mansion Association
Lowry at 25: Celebrating a Quarter-Century of Culture in Salford
This year, Lowry marks its 25th anniversary - a milestone that celebrates not only the venue’s artistic achievements but also its transformative role in Salford’s cultural landscape. Since opening its doors in April 2000, Lowry has welcomed over 18.5 million visitors, becoming a cornerstone of creativity and community engagement in Salford Quays.
A Cultural Catalyst
Lowry’s inception was pivotal in revitalising Salford Quays, turning a once-derelict dockland into a vibrant cultural hub. Over the past 25 years, it has hosted world-class theatre productions, art exhibitions, and community programmes, significantly contributing to the city's regeneration and cultural enrichment.
Immersive art experience: LOWRY 360
As part of its celebration programme, Lowry has launched ‘LOWRY 360’ the UK’s first free, permanent immersive experience that brings L.S. Lowry’s iconic painting ‘Going to the Match’ to life.
Artistic highlights
The anniversary programme also features a range events and exhibitions to explore including:
Quentin Blake and Me: A free exhibition showcasing illustrations by the beloved children’s author, including a special portrait of L.S. Lowry. Saturday 19 July to Sunday 31 August.
Camille Walala mural: The Promenade Gallery will be transformed by a large-scale mural by French artist Camille Walala, inspired by the architectural aesthetics of cityscapes and views of MediaCity. Friday 26 September onwards.
Join the Celebration
Lowry’s 25th anniversary is more than a celebration of its past; it’s an invitation to the Salford community to engage with art, culture, and each other. With a year-long programme of free exhibitions, performances, and community projects, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Scan the QR code
Our Lowry Scheme
Live in Salford?
Get discounted theatre tickets with our Lowry. From circus to opera, family shows to West End musicals, Lowry have saved you a seat and a few quid for every performance!
Once you’ve signed up, every week we will send you an email containing exclusive offers only for you.
How do I sign up?
Email our@thelowry.com or call the box office on 0161 876 2000 and tell us your name, postcode and confirm you want to start getting offers from us.
A blooming birthday gift
Salford residents can look forward to more free Tuesdays at RHS Garden Bridgewater as the scheme has been extended until May 2026 in celebration of the garden’s fourth anniversary. Since opening in May 2021, more than 118,000 local people have explored the 154-acre landscape filled with winding paths, vibrant borders and peaceful water features - absolutely free every Tuesday.
RHS Bridgewater’s 4th Anniversary brings more free Tuesdays!
Every visit supports vital community programmes designed to share the benefits of gardening and time spent outdoors. In 2024 alone, nearly 12,000 Salford schoolchildren enjoyed free workshops and resources at the garden. As the UK’s largest gardening charity, the RHS also offers visitors on Universal Credit or Pension Credit a £1 admission to all RHS gardens throughout the year, ensuring financial barriers don’t stand in the way of green space.
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett echoes that excitement:
Liz Thwaite, Head of RHS Bridgewater, highlights the garden’s growing community role:
RHS Garden Bridgewater is proud to provide local organisations with space to grow, from our Community Grow and Community Wellbeing Gardens to our extensive outreach work across the region. There are exciting new features on the horizon, including the Elemental Borders, the Green Skills Garden, and the Chinese Streamside Scholar’s Garden - set to open in late 2026. We’ve been uplifted by Salford’s enthusiastic response and can’t wait to welcome even more residents on free Tuesdays.
Plan your visit to the wonderful RHS Garden Bridgewater today
RHS Garden Bridgewater has become a cherished asset for our families and communities, and I’m thrilled the Free Tuesday initiative continues for another year. It reaffirms our commitment to accessible green spaces for all Salford residents. You can walk or cycle along the Salford Greenway, or hop on the Bee Network 33 bus from Manchester City Centre and Eccles Interchange from April to August - right to the garden entrance.”
Beyond its beauty, RHS Garden Bridgewater plays a key role in wellbeing, education and biodiversity in Salford. By providing vital green space for families, schools and community groups, the garden inspires a love of nature, supports local wildlife and helps tackle climate change. With Free Tuesdays secured until May 2026, there’s never been a better time to discover and celebrate everything this wonderful garden has to offer.
Find them at: Occupation Road, Off Leigh Road, Worsley, Salford, M28 2LJ
Garden opening hours until 25 October, Monday to Sunday: 10am to 6pm (last entry 5pm).
For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk
Summer is here and everywhere you look, there’s pots, tubs and trays to recycle. Ice cream tubs, meat trays from the barbecue, hummus pots from picky teas, you can recycle them all at home.
What is a plastic pot, tub or tray?
• Plastic pots (e.g. yoghurt, soup, hair gel)
• Plastic tubs (e.g. margarine, laundry powder, chocolates)
• Plastic trays (e.g. raw and cooked meat trays, fruit and veg punnets) You can still put plastic bottles in your brown recycling bin, along with glass bottles and jars, food tins and drinks cans, foil and aerosols. Just give them a rinse before you pop them in your bin to keep everything clean.
What to do with other plastics?
• The only plastics you can recycle in your brown bin are bottles, pots, tubs and trays.
• Plastic bags and wrapping go in your black bin or can be taken to most supermarkets.
• Hard plastics like coat hangers go in your black bin or take them to the hard plastic container at your local recycling centre.
• Paint pots should go to the recycling centre, never in your bins at home.
This summer, Salford City Council is encouraging everyone to create a Greener Salford - find more tips to reduce, re-use and recycle your waste at https://recycleforgreatermanchester.com
Community cash up for grabs
Local projects, charities and good causes across Salford have been getting a helping hand thanks to the Springboard community grant from Salix Homes - and your idea could be next.
Since its launch, Springboard has channelled more than £500,000 into local community projects and initiatives.
Grants typically range from £500 to £2,000 and anyone can apply, not just Salix Homes customers, as long as the project benefits the communities that the housing association serves across Salford.
One recent Springboard success story is the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), which received £1,500 to provide vital consultations for pets at their Manchester Pet Hospital.
With this funding, PDSA can deliver over 60 essential consultations for poorly pets, offering peace of mind to pet owners who may be struggling financially.
Chloe Broad from PDSA said:
"We’re incredibly grateful for the support from the Springboard Community Fund. We don’t receive any government funding, so rely on generous donations like this to continue to provide our vital veterinary care."
Do you have an idea that could make a difference?
Apply for Springboard funding today!
Springboard is Salix Homes’ community fund programme that offers cash injections to much needed local groups and community activities that will improve the areas our customers live in. How to apply:
Apply online at www.salixhomes.co.uk/springboard or scan the QR code below
Email us at customer.engagement@salixhomes.co.uk or call our Customer Engagement team on 07966 316 312
Health habits to keep you
active and well this summer
Improve your mood and energy
Sunny days can make you feel happier! Doing fun activities outside like gardening, cycling, or just taking a brisk walk can release happy chemicals in your brain and give you a sense of belonging.
To find events and activities near you, search online or scan the QR codes below
Summer is here, and it’s a fantastic time to have fun while staying healthy! Whether you’re hanging out at home or travelling abroad, here are some tips for a brighter summer:
• Health Improvement Connect local social interest groups and activities.
• The Great Get Together 20 to 22 June 2025 - bringing communities together.
• Salford traffic-free cycle routes to connect you with nature, enjoy the wildlife, and actively travel to work.
Fun and free family activities
On days when you can't go outside, there are many fun, free activities for children, young people, and families to enjoy during the school holidays.
For ideas, search online for:
• Salford Family Hubs
• Salford Community Leisure
• Holiday activities and food programme
• HAPPI - Salford's Healthy Families Programme
• Salford Museum and Art Gallery offer lots of family activities
Boost Your Immunity
Spending time outside in the summer helps your body fight off germs. Fresh air and sunlight can boost your Vitamin D, which is important for keeping you healthy and strong! Remember, sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday. You can burn in the UK, even when it's cloudy. Scan the QR code for more seasonal health advice.
Here are some tips to help you live well over the summer:
• Take advantage of cancer screening when you receive an invitation.
• Young or old, stay hydrated, to keep energy up, reduce infections and help the body work well. Adding fruits and vegetables in your meals, like refreshing salads or smoothies all counts.
• If you or your child have missed a vaccine, contact your GP to catch up - getting vaccines on time gives you the best protection.
Whether you’re looking to discover more of Salford or jetting away to somewhere sunny, remember to stay active and healthy this summer! You’ll feel great and make wonderful memories with family and friends. Enjoy the season!
Why Youth Work Matters: Building Brighter Futures in Salford
Joe Amos, the Head of Youth Work at the new Salford Youth Zone, shares his perspective on the vital role youth work plays in empowering young people and strengthening communities across the city.
Q
What is your favourite thing about being a Youth Worker?
The best thing about being a youth worker is seeing young people develop over time. Youth work isn’t about a quick fix but a more longitudinal approach to seeing young people reach their full potential. No matter how many years ago it was, young people always remember the difference you made in their lives, which is special to hear. I think for me it's also about having had a career over the last 20 years working in the communities I’ve grown up in and giving back to them.
Membership for SYZ is now open!
Q
What would you say to anyone that is considering a career in Youth Work?
We need you! Youth work is a rewarding career and the skills you have could be what is needed to help young people be successful. It's more than a job, though it’s a lifestyle; it's not dealing with a product, you're working with people's lives, so you need to be committed.
Head to our website to sign up now: www.salfordyouthzone.org or scan the QR code!
Remember to be aware of the danger of open water
As part of the latest Greater Manchester Fire Service campaign we are reminding people about the dangers of open water.
Remember, whatever the time of year, cold water shock kills even the strongest swimmers and jumping into open water can be fatal. Cold water shock and under-water currents can kill, and you don’t know what’s lurking beneath the surface.
Please let your children know that they need to stay safe around water and speak with them about the dangers – it could save their life.
For more information please scan the QR code
If you see someone in difficulty in the water remember ‘call, tell, throw’
• Call 999 and ask for the fire service if inland or the coastguard if at the sea.
• Tell the struggling person to try to float on their back.
• Throw them something that floats.
Celebrate Armed Forces Week in
Salford
Join Salford in honouring our Armed Forces with a ag-raising ceremony at 10.30am on Monday 23 June outside Salford Civic Centre.
On Saturday 28 June, don’t miss the Armed Forces Day parade from Duke’s Drive, Monton to Winton Park starting at 10.30am followed by a family fun day in the park with exciting activities and entertainment for the whole family.
Details at www.salford.gov.uk/armedforcesday
Have your say on the proposal to create a parish council for the Broughton Park area
Salford City Council is consulting with local people in the Broughton Park area on community governance arrangements - how local communities are represented and governed at a local level.
Following a validated petition, this community governance review is a legal requirement. The council will write to everyone who lives or has a business in the affected area, setting out how they can respond.
Drop into an information event at Broughton Hub
Wednesday 25 June 2025 - 9am to 1pm
Wednesday 23 July 2025 - 3pm to 7pm
Tuesday 19 August 2025 - 12pm to 4pm
Visit www.salford.gov.uk/community-governance to find out more and complete the survey online
