CASTLE IRWELL

Sustainable and nature-based solutions at the heart of Salford Development

Embracing our core principles of Nature, People & Place, we helped shape a Salford masterplan by weaving a network of resilient nature-based solutions seamlessly into the scheme. The design centres on creating a vibrant, bio-diverse public realm with green streets that serve as a central hub for the community. The layout strategically incorporates native planting and semi-mature trees, which, along with thoughtfully placed bridges, organically connect the street network. Additionally, the inclusion of a large play park and trails creates opportunities for community engagement and active lifestyles.

The development was a brownfield site surrounded by water, flood-risk was a key driver of our proposal.
The response was to utilise nature-based solutions and SuDs to alleviate flood risk and reduce contaminated water run-off. The park is engineered to also function as a flood basin, mitigating future flood risks and showcasing our commitment to purpose-driven, sustainable design that can adapt to the challenges of a changing climate.

Putting sustainable urban drainage at the heart of healthy communities

This project showcases how we can redesign brownfield sites into abundant green and blue spaces that enhance biodiversity, reduce flood risk, increase peoples connection to nature, and reduce rain run off. Taking a site once constrained by the 'threat' of water, we flipped this narrative and actively promoted a healthy balance between housing, space for water, green spaces, and connections at a human level.

Mapping desire lines across the site.

The result is a green and blue heart of the Castle Irwell development.

Early conceptual sketch of landscape-led SuDs.

Encouraging active lifestyles in nature

Pathways and green streets meander through the natural basin, encouraging residents to choose scenic routes over the shortest distance. This thoughtful design promotes everyday active mobility and deepens residents' connection to the natural world.

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Beyond promoting physical activity, these pathways also serve as a stage for social interaction, as people can stroll or bike with friends and neighbours. To further encourage an active and healthy lifestyle, the development also provides free outdoor sports and play facilities that are open to everyone, creating opportunities for healthy community engagement and recreation.

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