University of Salford partners with Northern Roots

The project has the backing of Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, and is a collaboration with Oldham Council. Since 2017, the University has been working on the development of Northern Roots, with several projects shaping the development of the site from an initial feasibility study, to economic, ecological and sustainability assessments of the site.

The University’s work has helped to contribute to the creation of a space were people can come together to learn, grow and create.

Dr Michael Hardman, Senior Lecturer in Urban Geography at the University of Salford, said: “This is an exceptionally exciting project for the University to be involved in. We have been working behind the scenes for several years taking the project from concept to the detailed business modelling stage. The scheme has already created jobs in the area and links to the regeneration of Oldham’s town centre. With urban farming and greening high on the national and international agenda, there is huge potential for Northern Roots going forward.”    

Already the space has provided learning opportunities for students with the University using the site at Snipe Clough, Oldham as a ‘Living Lab’ for consultancy, research for dissertations, student assessment and fieldtrips.

Dr Hardman has led three projects linked to enabling the scheme since 2017. The most recent, commissioned in November 2019, sees the University leading a team of business modellers, ecologists, architects and others to create in-depth scenario plans for the site.

More information about the project can be found at https://northern-roots.uk/