In summer 2026 Salford Council undertook a comprehensive review of Conservation Areas in Salford, consulting on draft documents for the existing conservation areas and the proposal of a new conservation area in Ordsall.
Manchester Bolton Bury Canal Society (MBBCS) wish to endorse the following statement as part of this review, welcoming the creation of a new conservation area in Ordsall.
Submitted online 14.09.2026 by David Barnes
Bluespace refers to visible water environments – such as rivers, canals, lakes and ponds – and the natural and designed spaces associated with them that contribute to character, setting and wellbeing. Together with Salford’s waterways, bluespace form an important part of Salford’s historic landscape and have played a significant role in the city’s development. The River Irwell, Manchester Ship Canal, Bridgewater Canal, the former Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal and associated watercourses have shaped patterns of settlement, industry and transport, and remain defining features of many Conservation Areas. In addition to their historic significance, waterways contribute to townscape character, views, biodiversity and opportunities for recreation.
The MBBCS believes the commitment expressed in this statement should be enhanced in two ways. First, to recognise that conservation sometimes involves restoration of heritage. A good example of this is the canal structure at Middlewood Locks. Second, to recognise that the waterways/bluespaces and especially the canals constitute a world significant network due to their vital role in the advent and first 60 years of the world’s first industrial revolution. It is the view of the MBBCS that this merits application for World Heritage status.
Taking this approach, the heritage assets of the MBBCS should be given conservation status in expectation of restoration.
Local list
The MBBCS endorses the statement in the criteria for local listing, namely, that “Waterways – Salford has a number of significant waterways that represent the history and development of the district”.
The MBBCS would like to see this reflected in enhanced recognition of canal heritage assets. The MBBCS would like to see additional local listings as follows and claim that for each item the following listing criteria is fulfilled:
(2) Historical interest; (3) Age; (5) Local interest; (6) Group value; (7) Landmark value; (8) Social or communal value.
Ordsall area
- Middlewood Locks including locks 1 and 2; the lower winding hole/basin and the upper winding hole/basin
- The coping stones on the line of the canal at Upper Wharf Street
- The joint railway/canal boundary wall at the former Christ Church site
Border of Pendleton & Charlestown and Pendlebury & Clifton areas
- The loading piers at Agecroft Harbour