Credit: The Telegraph
How investment, education, and development are reshaping communities
Cardwells Estate Agents has closely followed the transformation of Salford’s neighbourhoods, where gentrification has accelerated over the past decade. Charlestown has emerged as the most gentrified location in England and Wales, with impressive gains in education, income, and amenities — alongside a remarkable rise in property values from £73,000 to £212,000. This shift, fuelled by developments like MediaCityUK and improved transport links, has turned previously overlooked areas into desirable places to live.
But while these changes are widely celebrated, they have also led to rising concerns. Many long-standing residents now find themselves priced out of the market, as local wages and housing availability fail to keep pace with the demand from incoming buyers and investors.
Andrew Cardwell: “Regeneration mustn’t leave communities behind”
Andrew Cardwell, Managing Director at Cardwell’s Estate Agents, points to Little Hulton South as a prime example. “We’ve seen property prices there rise by 193% — from £92,000 to £270,000,” he says. “That’s largely due to infrastructure investment, popular schools, and new-build housing schemes that have attracted strong demand.” Cardwell notes that the area once provided accessible housing options for first-time buyers and families — but the dramatic growth has now created barriers for many local people.
This pattern is echoed across Greater Manchester, with areas like Belle Vue and West Gorton also seeing sharp increases in house prices. “There’s no denying the benefits of regeneration,” says Cardwell, “but it’s crucial we maintain a sense of balance. It shouldn’t come at the expense of the people who gave these communities their identity.” As more professionals relocate to Salford and surrounding areas, the challenge for local authorities and developers is clear: ensure growth is inclusive and that progress doesn’t come at the cost of displacement.
Read the full news article at: The Telegraph
