Ambitious plans have been submitted to Trafford Council that could see Pomona Island turned into one of Manchester’s most distinctive new neighbourhoods.
Peel Waters has submitted an outline planning application for the next phase of its Manchester Waters masterplan, aiming to regenerate 25 acres of brownfield land between the Bridgewater Canal and the Manchester Ship Canal. If approved, the scheme would deliver around 2,500 new homes, alongside parks, public spaces and waterside connections – effectively creating a new ‘island district’ for the city.
Credit: Peel Waters and Jon Matthews Architects
The plans include a mix of housing types, from affordable homes and build-to-rent apartments to student, care and elderly living accommodation, as well as room for a hotel. There would also be flexible workspace, retail units, leisure and event space, as well as social spaces for future coffee shops, bars and eateries.
Green space is at the heart of the vision, with more than half of the site dedicated to public realm and landscaping. Plans include a five-acre waterside park, sports and play areas, and new walking routes linking the site to MediaCity, Trafford Wharfside and Manchester city centre.
With two Metrolink stops at either side of the site and new promenades and cycle routes planned, the development is set to be one of the best-connected sites in Greater Manchester.
Credit: Peel Waters and Jon Matthews Architects
Leigh Thomas, Development Director at Peel Waters, said: “This masterplan will open up Pomona Island to the public for the first time in decades, creating a unique ‘island’ neighbourhood with parks and recreation space for future visitors, residents and workers to enjoy, whilst ensuring there is a housing option for all incomes and ages.”
If the plans are given the green light, over 1,000 new homes could be completed within the next five years, marking a major step forward in the transformation of one of Manchester’s most overlooked waterside locations.
You can view the proposal for the Manchester Waters masterplan here.
