Salford's Islington Mill could get new cafe and yoga space under revamp plans

A new cafe and yoga space could open in Salford's Islington Mill under plans to revamp one its buildings.

Plans for the new areas in the Parramatta building, which forms part of the Islington Mill complex, have been submitted to Salford City Council. The site is home to the Islington Mill Arts Club, a network of artists based in the grade II listed complex which also has studio spaces and an artist’s B&B.

Proposals for the Parramatta building are aimed at making 'significant improvements' to the mill's offering, according to planning documents. This includes a 'change of use from bed and breakfast to café and take away shop' at the front section of the ground floor.

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Treatment rooms are planned in the two rear ground floor spaces, which could be used for massages and therapy. On the first floor, the plan is to create a space for yoga and similar activities.

Based near Chapel Street, the site of the mill offers easy access to Salford Central and Salford Crescent railway stations, as well as other public transport connections.

The mill was first built for cotton spinning in 1823 by Leeds-born architect David Bellhouse, but has evolved into a 'cultural institution' within the city of Salford.

The arts club based at the site was set up by Bill Campbell in 2000, and the new cafe plans are hoped to play a role in bringing together the mill's users, visitors and residents, based around the building's courtyard.

A planning report states that the changes would 'support works required to reinforce and expand activities and improve access to this vibrant and inclusive arts centre in the heart of Salford.'

Salford City Council is planning to decide the application by November 11.