Salford

Salford is a metropolitan borough in Greater Manchester, sitting on both banks of the River Irwell just to the west of Manchester city centre. Once a separate industrial town, its geography - with waterways, former docks and Victorian terraces - still shapes the character of the district.

Its 19th- and early 20th-century economy was driven by mills, docks and the Manchester Ship Canal, but from the late 20th century much of the waterfront was regenerated. The former docklands at Salford Quays now host MediaCityUK, the cultural complex at The Lowry and new housing and office developments that have repositioned the local economy toward media, creative and service sectors.

Today Salford combines notable cultural institutions and the University of Salford with ongoing neighbourhood renewal and a diverse population. Good rail and tram links make it closely connected to Manchester and the wider Greater Manchester labour market, while parks such as Peel Park provide valued green space amid the urban landscape.