Bars, restaurants and ‘artisan’ businesses set to be created in historic railway arches

A series railway arches in the historic heart of Salford looks set to be converted into vibrant commercial outlets like mocrobreweries, bars, restaurants and cafes.

There could also be bespoke woodwork and furniture manufacturing, glass and ceramic production, bicycle repairs and retail floor space under plans from The Arch Company.

Its proposals are due for discussion at Salford’s planning and transportation regulatory panel meeting on Thursday (September 21), but are recommended for approval by city hall officers..

The arches are right in the middle of Greengate, an area undergoing intensive development and growth in the city.

A report to the panel says the plan is ‘borne out from the council identifying Greengate as a regeneration area suitable for comprehensive redevelopment and high-quality public realm opportunities’.

“One of the core aims is to deliver a successful and vibrant community which supports culture, heritage, active ground floor uses and public open spaces,” it says.

The application site consists of 10 vacant commercial railway arches fronting onto Norton Street.

Permission is being sought for a chance to provide retail, office, restaurant and cafes alongside light industrial ‘artisan’ uses.

Several representations have been received following publicity about the application.

One says the creation of drinking establishments and outdoor seating areas could lead to ‘excessive and intolerable noise and disturbance’ to homes nearby.

Concerns have also been voiced about raised voices, late-night drinkers, bottle banks and crowds.

“Even if bars/pubs close at 10pm, this will likely lead to people loitering outside for long periods of time,” said one.

The prospect of possible anti-social behaviour has also been mentioned.

Council officers argue that the planning application is accompanied by a noise assessment, reviewed and corroborated by the authority’s environmental consultant, who considers planning conditions can mitigate any effect on neighbours.