Our strategically significant £1 billion development, transforming 25 acres of former brownfield land between Salford and Manchester city centre, has reached a major milestone. Middlewood Locks, a thriving neighbourhood that has already injected hundreds of millions of pounds into the local economy, celebrates a decade of progress and is poised to commence its next substantial phase.
Initiated in 2016, Middlewood Locks has revitalised a previously disused brownfield site surrounding the three large basins of the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal, breathing new life into the forgotten waterways and the Ordsall Chord railway infrastructure.
Today, Middlewood Locks is home to more than 2,600 residents living in 1,306 homes, supported by retail and leisure amenities and an extensive public realm. The development has won national and regional awards for social impact and its role in bridging Salford and Manchester city centre, providing a safe and enjoyable route between the two.
Developed by Scarborough Group International alongside our Singaporean investment partner Metro Holdings, Middlewood Locks stands as a benchmark for city-centre regeneration and excellence in public-private sector partnerships, receiving strong backing from Salford City Council and Homes England.
The next significant phase of the masterplan will commence on land linking directly to Manchester city centre through the railway arches. This area has detailed consent for a further 909 much-needed new homes, marking a substantial expansion of the already established neighbourhood.
The phased delivery will also include commercial space with Grade A office accommodation, a hotel, a multi-storey car park, additional retail and leisure amenities, and further public realm, including a public square and canalside park.
The tenth anniversary of Middlewood Locks coincides with our own 50th anniversary, marking significant milestones for both the development and the company behind it. Over the past five decades, we have established ourselves as one of the UK’s leading regeneration specialists, delivering transformative projects that unlock the potential of underused urban land and create long-term economic and social value.
Simon McCabe, Chief Executive at SGI, said:
“The progress at Middlewood Locks over the past decade reflects the strength of long-term partnerships and a shared ambition to create sustainable communities in our major cities. We have successfully navigated the unprecedented economic challenges we faced, particularly the pandemic and rising building costs, demonstrating our unwavering commitment and determination to keep delivering much-needed new homes. Middlewood Locks is a development we are incredibly proud of, and one that demonstrates what can be achieved when public and private sector partners work together with a clear vision.
“As we celebrate Scarborough Group International’s 50th anniversary this year, Middlewood Locks is a powerful example of our commitment to regenerating former industrial land and delivering places where people want to live, work and spend time. As a family-owned business with deep roots in the North of England, our focus has always been on long-term investment and placemaking that supports the continued growth of our regional cities.
“Looking ahead, the next phase of Middlewood Locks will complete the transformation of this strategically important site, strengthening the connection between Salford and Manchester city centre and further establishing Middlewood Locks as a thriving, self-sustaining neighbourhood.”
Salford’s growth and transformation
In recent years, Salford has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from its industrial past to emerge as one of the United Kingdom’s fastest-growing urban economies. Over the last decade, the city’s population has increased by approximately 36,000 people, representing a 15.4% rise — more than double the national growth rate of 6.6% for England and the highest in the North. This population surge reflects Salford’s dynamic evolution and its growing appeal as a place to live and work.
The city is also marking a centenary since it was officially granted city status, celebrating 100 years of urban identity. A year-long programme of cultural, civic and community events is planned to commemorate this historic milestone, with Middlewood Locks actively participating in the festivities. These celebrations highlight Salford’s enduring sense of community and its ongoing journey of growth and regeneration.
Stephen Young, Chief Executive, Salford City Council, said:
“2026 marks a truly special occasion for Salford, offering an opportunity to celebrate the city’s rich industrial heritage and its transformation into a modern, inclusive urban city. Throughout the year, we will pay tribute to Salford’s past, recognise the vibrancy of its present, and look forward with optimism to an innovative and inclusive future. This promising outlook is exemplified by projects such as Middlewood Locks, which continue to drive positive change and support the city’s ongoing evolution.”
Terry Errington, Head of StructuredReal Estate Finance at Homes England, said:
“We are delighted to celebrate this milestone moment for Middlewood Locks, a truly transformative development that has received two allocations of funding from Homes England to help shape our emerging communities. It is urban regeneration schemes like Middlewood Locks that will support the Levelling Up of towns and cities, creating places where people want to live and socialise.”
Middlewood Locks Fest – annual community festival
