Charlotte Hall

Bexley Square in Salford, the site of a violent 1931 protest against the unemployment-benefit means test, has been nominated for local heritage asset protection. About 10,000 people attended the demonstration, where mounted police charged protesters outside Salford Town Hall. The event involved figures including writer Walter Greenwood and folk singer Ewan MacColl, and later influenced local cultural identity. Salford Council is also considering pubs, churches, bridges, a bingo hall and other sites, with public consultation scheduled from 3 August to 14 September 2026.

A long-running Salford community group that provides social activities for elderly residents and young people risks closing by September after failing to secure National Lottery funding. The organisation, which offers coffee mornings, classes and outings to combat isolation, warns rising rent costs will accelerate its financial crisis. Volunteers and regular attendees describe the service as a vital lifeline and say its loss would be devastating for the community.

Residents of a Salford tower block report severe maintenance failures, including persistent rat and cockroach infestations and a repeatedly broken lift that has left vulnerable tenants trapped in their homes. Despite paying monthly maintenance fees, residents say there is no caretaker and cleaning is infrequent. Onward Homes apologises, citing difficulties sourcing parts for the lift, and says pest control measures are underway across the estate.