Trafford launches new plan to champion its rich heritage

The Heritage Framework is a borough-wide plan developed in collaboration with residents, community groups, businesses and partners. The framework strengthens the Council’s commitment to ensuring that heritage is for everyone and that the stories, places and cultures that shape Trafford are shared and celebrated.

A launch event took place at Stretford Public Hall, the Grade II-listed community venue originally built by philanthropists John and Enriquetta Rylands in the late 19th century. The hall provided a fitting backdrop for unveiling a vision which seeks to champion heritage and promote a more inclusive understanding of the borough's shared past.

Cllr Eve Parker, Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture & Heritage, said: 

“Heritage is not just about our past - it's the stories and culture we share today and pass on to future generations. It has huge potential to support growth, tourism and local skills, which is just one reason why I'm proud to recognise and support Trafford’s heritage."

The Heritage Framework outlines Trafford’s ambition to conserve and celebrate its historic environment.

Over the past year, residents, organisations and partners took part in a series of engagement sessions, helping to shape the Framework’s priorities. These conversations identified six key themes, including Trafford’s sporting heritage and the people of Trafford.

Participants were also invited to share their aspirations for the next decade of heritage in Trafford. Their contributions have informed a 10-year vision in which Trafford becomes a destination known for its diverse heritage, thriving communities and inclusive cultural offer.

Alongside commitments to support local organisations in reducing their carbon emissions and protecting at-risk heritage sites through preservation work, the framework will also establish a Heritage Network - an open, inclusive group that will meet regularly to share learning, strengthen connections and offer peer support.

Cllr Parker added: 

"We’re already seeing more opportunities for people to enjoy the heritage around us, from new programmes at Imperial War Museum North to exciting new developments at Lancashire Cricket Club and Dunham Massey.

 

“This framework will help build on that progress and bring people even closer to the shared histories that shape our borough.”