Although Salford is situated close to the heart of Manchester, it is technically a city in its own right. The slums of the past have been replaced by blocks of flats - about 50% of accommodation is rented, either from the councils or housing associations.
Salford’s most famous son is the world-renowned artist LS Lowry, and he is commemorated by the recently opened Lowry Centre, a £60m major arts, education and entertainment complex located in the Salford Quays development. The old docks have been renovated to encompass a four-star hotel, 112 houses, business park and cinema complex.
The on-going development within the seat should improve its economic prospects, but unemployment is still above average in the area. Salford has had its own university since 1967.