Salford City Council and Salford University in the UK have launched the tender to appoint a private sector partner for the development of 100 hectare Salford Crescent and University District Masterplan area under the public-private partnership model in Greater Manchester area. The project investment is GBP 2.5 billion (US$ 3.2 billion). 

The contract will span over the next 10 years, with an option to extend the contract for a further 5 years. The selected private partner will also provide a range of ancillary professional services including the delivery of the masterplan and will be responsible for managing and/or delivering the project and working closely with the Partners over the duration of the contract.

The project includes five zones, namely Adelphi, Crescent, Innovation, Health Village and Peel Park.

Salford City Council and The University of Salford have been working with 5plus architects and CBRE since summer 2017 to prepare the Salford Crescent and University District Masterplan.

"Salford Crescent, which includes the University of Salford, is on course to become a major new city district over the next ten years, building on the success of recent and planned development in the surrounding area at Chapel Street, New Bailey and Greengate. The Crescent Masterplan is the largest development opportunity available in Greater Manchester and its central location as part of the expanding Manchester conurbation has obvious and far-reaching appeal. Combined with this scale, it also offers new infrastructure plans, growing research, development and innovation credentials and student numbers at the University. There is a distinct opportunity to create and connect a modern residential neighbourhood with a quality mixed-tenure, diverse housing offer and a unique innovation park aligned to future business growth sectors," said Salford City Mayor and University of Salford Vice Chancellor in a joint statement.