We hope that you find these maps helpful for navigating the area and discovering what’s happening, when things are open and what the locals think about them.   

How to use the maps 

• Find your area below and click on the button to access the interactive digital map 
• You will see different pins that show you the different places to go, people to see and things to do in your community 
• To use the map, click on the pins for more information or select them from the menu list on the left. Here you can filter by activity, location and type 

We welcome any feedback or thoughts about the maps and want to listen and learn from any suggestions you might have. If you would like to know more or have any suggestions, please email the Community Development Team on communities@forhousing.co.uk

The history of Eccles

Eccles, likely named after a historical church site, was a village from at least 12th century, and remained so until the 19th century when it began industrialising. In 1892, the districts of Eccles (Barton-upon-Irwell, Monton, and Winston) was formed. 

Eccles began massive expansion in the 1890’s with its part in the construction of the Manchester Canal, with the population growing by over 40% in 15 years.  

Eccles has historically had links to the textile trade (particularly silk), iron, engineering, and rubber, as well as agricultural work in Barton. It was also the site of the original Manchester Airport that opened in 1930 that was first civic airport in the country. In 1974, Eccles was reorganised into the Salford Metropolitan District. 

Eccles today

Eccles is a lively town known for its strong sense of community and leisure opportunities. Sports enthusiasts will love that it’s home to the rugby league clubs Salford City Roosters and Salford Red Devils, as well as the City of Salford Volleyball Club.  

The town is also a hub for community activities, with centres like Brookhouse, Westwood, and the Castle Community Centre offering different clubs and events.  

The Eccles Leisure Centre also adds to the town’s appeal, providing facilities for fitness and recreation. With its dynamic sports scene and thriving community spirit, Eccles is a fantastic place to be. 

The history of Irlam & Cadishead

Historically known as Irwellham, Irlam is named after the river Irwell, with Cadishead’s name meaning ‘settlement of Cadis’, likely from one of the founders of the early medieval site.  

Irlam and Cadishead remained largely undeveloped until the opening of a railway station in 1873, and the redirection of the river as part of the construction of the Manchester canal in 1894. The canal helped the local industry, and for most of the 20th century Irlam was a steel producer, although the presence of this industry declined. Irlam is also the site of the largest independent wine bottler in the UK, Kingsland Wine & Spirits.

Irlam & Cadishead today

Irlam and Cadishead are vibrant and welcoming communities with plenty to offer. The area has beautiful parks, including Cadishead Park, Princes Park, and Irlam Linear Park. 

  Liverpool Road is home to a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants. The area is supported by Hamilton Davies Trust, founded by Irlam-born businessman Neil McArthur, which continues to give back to the community in many ways.

The History of Swinton & Clifton

Swinton, meaning ‘swine-town’ was known in its early history for its pig farming, whereas the name Clifton is ‘cliff-town’, named after its slightly higher elevation to the majority of Salford.  

Swinton and Clifton expanded in the industrial revolution, with the local brickmaking and textile industry. It created a local demand for coal that became a large coal mining operation. These industries are now absent from the area. 

We hope that you find this map helpful for navigating the area and discovering what’s happening, when things are open and what the locals think about them.   

These areas became a part of the city of Salford in 1974 and is now the seat of Salford City Council.  

Following consultation in 2022, Swinton is being regenerated according to the Swinton Vision plan which is likely to continue developing the town for the foreseeable future. 

Swinton & Clifton today

Swinton and Clifton are welcoming communities with vibrant atmospheres, offering many activities by numerous community groups and residents. The Valley Community Centre, with over 20 years of success, is at the heart of the area, offering activities for families and young people, as well as a beautiful community garden to explore and enjoy.

The area has sports and leisure facilities, including Swinton Football Club, Salford Community Leisure Centres, and the peaceful Silverdale Forest in Clifton.

The area has several community spaces like The Buzzy Bee Cafe, Critchley Community Hub and Clifton Country Park.

The History Little Hulton & Walkden

Little Hulton, historically the smallest of the three Hulton settlements (with Over Hulton now a suburb in Bolton, and Middle Hulton being abolished in 1898) was a medieval settlement dating to the 12th century.

Walkden’s name is believed to derive from Wealca-denu, meaning Wealca’s Valley. Evidence of iron smelting in the medieval period made the area a natural fit to expand in the industrial revolution, and both Little Hulton and Walkden became significant coal producers, with coal operations in the area as late as 2011. Much of the land formerly used by the coal industry has been reclaimed and, over the 20th and 21st century, has been built into neighbourhoods and greenspace.

Little Hulton & Walkden today

Little Hulton has a real community spirit. There are lots of community groups and activities run by passionate volunteers. Everyone in the community is well connected and work in partnership to make positive change. 

There are a number of community spaces such as Peel Park Pavillion and Wharton and Cleggs Lane Community Cafe and Centre offering free activities, clubs/groups activities. 

 You will also find some local charities such as the Mustard Tree and Society Inc. where you can get free help and advice.   

 There’s also several green spaces, including Peel Park (with an open access bike pump track and multi-use games area), the Linnyshaw Loopline is a walking and cycling route between Little Hulton and Walkden, and there is a great community garden space at Wharton and Cleggs Lane Church.