Plans have been submitted to transform Salford University's David Lewis Playing Fields into a modern sports hub with three multi-use all-weather pitches, a 1km running trail, and upgraded facilities. The £2.5bn Salford Crescent masterplan, covering 240 acres, includes these community-accessible amenities near Peel Park.
New Sports Facilities Details
The redevelopment of the fields, located off Wallness Lane, will replace the current 3G football and rugby pitch and grass pitch. The new design features a 3G all-weather football pitch and a 2G all-weather pitch suitable for hockey, tennis, and recreational 11-a-side football. A 1km informal running trail will be added, along with changing rooms, toilets, shelters, electric vehicle charging points, and accessible parking.
Salford mayor Paul Dennett said: “These proposals are a fantastic step forward for the Crescent and for community sport in Salford. Investing in high-quality, accessible facilities like this will help people of all ages stay active, support local clubs, and create opportunities for students and residents alike. This is exactly the kind of partnership-led regeneration we want to see—delivering real health, social and economic benefits for our communities.”
Community and School Access
The facilities will be available for use by local residents, schools, and clubs. The plans have received one objection so far, with a decision expected by the end of September 2026.
Padel Courts and Thrive Centre
If approved, the pitches will complement a separate application by Soul Padel Ltd to build four padel courts on adjacent land off Wallness Lane. These sports developments are part of the wider Crescent masterplan, which includes the £54m Thrive health centre. External construction of Thrive, featuring distinctive red cladding visible from Broad Street, is nearly complete. It is scheduled to finish by the end of 2026 and open for teaching in early 2027.
Thrive Centre and Masterplan Funding
The Thrive centre will host a portion of the university's 10,000 School of Health and Society students and a community health and wellbeing hub. Its design includes an 'internal forest' with real plants and an all-electric energy system, focusing on prosthetics research and sports rehabilitation. The Salford Crescent masterplan is funded by a partnership between Muse Developments, Legal and General, and Homes England, with support from Salford Council and the University of Salford, combining private investment and government grants.
