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A new footbridge between Salford and Manchester has been officially opened.
The footbridge is accompanied by public space improvements in the area. The bridge is is part of the £12m Ordsall Chord scheme, whilst the new public space improvements, is a joint development between Salford and Manchester City Councils.
The Ordsall Chord scheme saw the creation of a new, short railway line and River Irwell crossing between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria stations, designed to increase capacity and reduce journey times into and through Manchester.
The previous Prince's Bridge was demolished to make way for the creation of the Ordsall Chord and installation of the new railway line over the Irwell.
The new bridge connects Salford with the site of the new Aviva Studios, the home of Factory International.
Commenting on the project, Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: "Both cities have a rich and distinct, yet intertwined cultural identity. This work forms part of our sustainable transport plans for the whole city and with this bridge we’re creating a gateway to enable Salfordians access to cultural experiences on offer at MIF and Aviva Studios.
"Bridges have played a huge role in literally bringing our cities together and forging links. Our two cities worked together to span the Irwell way back in 1830 with the Stephenson Bridge. Today, this bridge is further evidence of our joint commitment to opening up the cities and to providing alternative, greener options for crossing our famous river border."
Reflecting on their involvement, Jill Stephenson, Principal Development Manager at Network Rail, said: "It's great to see this footbridge finally in use as it's been waiting in the wings since the completion of the Ordsall Chord railway bridge in 2017. It was always built with the future in mind, and it's been incredible to see the area redevelop on both sides of the river in recent years. The bridge can now play the role we always intended it to – connecting residents to their homes, workplaces, leisure and world class venues in both cities, directly underneath the iconic Ordsall Chord above."
