Public Realm Programme Phase One

Overview

The Public Realm Programme is a central component of the CCP, providing a strategic framework to improving the quality, functionality, and user experience of outdoor campus spaces. In August 2024, the University established the Public Realm Board to lead and oversee delivery of the public realm element of the CCP. The Board operated within a defined governance structure and placed strong emphasis on co-production, actively engaging academics, students, estates colleagues, and external partners including Salford City Council (SCC) and the English Cities Fund (ECF) alongside a wider group of stakeholders. Following the successful delivery of its initial objectives the Public Realm Project Board was formally closed in March 2026. Governance responsibilities have since transitioned to the newly established Public Realm and Enabling Infrastructure Programme Board, ensuring continuity of oversight, strategic alignment, and effective decision-making as the programme moves into delivery. The University has completed RIBA Stages 1 and 2, establishing a clear and coordinated blueprint for future development. The RIBA Stage 1 and 2 reports identified key challenges, including fragmented spaces, car dominated routes and inconsistent wayfinding. Engagement with students, staff, and wider stakeholders has reinforced the need to ensure that future estate development aligns with priorities for environmental sustainability, wellbeing, accessibility and inclusivity. Addressing these issues supports key Universities strategic objectives, including enhancing user experience, sustainability, EDI commitments, improving health and wellbeing, increasing safety and supporting long-term estate efficiency. The Public Realm programme aims to create a people focused environment that delivers social value and promotes sustainability, ecological resilience, and inclusive access. A coordinated, campus wide approach ensures that individual interventions contribute to a coherent, connected and high-quality estate, maximising both impact and long-term value. As a civic institution within a dense urban environment, the University plays an important role in increasing local habitat value and contributing to wider Greater Manchester biodiversity objectives, as set out in the Greater Manchester Local Nature Recovery strategy.