Exploring the evolution of Manchester with Julie Twist Properties

As Julie Twist Properties marks its 30th anniversary, Julie reflects on the incredible transformations that have shaped some of Manchester’s most iconic neighborhoods over the past thirty years.

From Salford to the Northern Quarter, Salford Quays, Castlefield and The Village, these areas have undergone remarkable change, evolving into vibrant communities where people aspire to live, work and thrive.

Join us as we explore these dynamic changes with Julie Twist, one of Manchester’s most respected estate agents, and uncover the stories behind the amazing evolution of these key locations over the past three decades.

The city is barely recognizable in some of these stunning archival photos – and you can see for yourself how far the city has come.

30 years of change in Manchester

Salford

Salford is a vibrant area just a stone’s throw from Manchester city centre, including neighborhoods such as Blackfriars, Ordsall and Salford city centre.

These areas are just over the River Irwell, providing easy access to Manchester’s business and shopping districts.

Popular with young professionals, Salford offers affordable prices and proximity to both Manchester and Salford universities.

Pendleton is currently undergoing a major 10-year regeneration plan, providing new and refurbished homes.

Ordsall boasts popular apartment blocks such as Quay 5, The Mill and Lowry Wharf.

Salford has landmarks such as the Lowry Center and Salford Cathedral, along with convenient shopping at the Salford Shopping Precinct and various retail parks.

The area is well connected by two railway stations, Salford Central and Salford Crescent, and major roads such as the A6, A580 and A57 providing easy access to the M602/M62 to Liverpool.

Julie’s sight: “Salford is a fantastic starting point to get on the property ladder, with prices more affordable than Manchester City Centre, offering some excellent rental yields.

“Many properties are within walking distance of Manchester and offer parking and gardens that are in short supply elsewhere.”

Salford Quays

Transformed from the old dockyards, Salford Quays is now a vibrant area with a world-class media centre, luxury waterfront developments and iconic art venues.

The area offers scenic dock views and traffic-free promenades.

Home to cultural landmarks such as the Lowry and the Imperial War Museum North, the Quays also offers shopping at the Lowry Outlet Mall, various restaurants and a multi-screen cinema.

Metrolink offers comprehensive transport links, connecting to MediaCityUK, home of the BBC, ITV and more.

Salford Quays also boasts leisure facilities such as the Helly Hansen Watersports Centre, which hosts activities such as sailing, rowing and wakeboarding.

Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium is nearby and the area offers stylish apartments and ongoing developments to meet growing demand.

Julie’s sight: “Thirty years ago this area was very different, it was always windy, but this is not much different, there was such a range of houses and flats, a pub, a water sports center and not much else!

“The tube wasn’t there and it was a bit of a walk to Manchester.

“It said you could definitely get more for your money and you felt like you were a million miles away from the stress of the city.

“Fast forward 30 years it is the beating heart of Greater Manchester’s media scene.

“Salford Quays never fails to deliver.

“From stage productions, fabulous dining experiences and shopping therapy, to water sports adventures and stunning waterfront scenery, not to mention close proximity to Manchester United!”

The North Quarter

The Northern Quarter is a trendy bohemian neighborhood loved by young professionals and students for its vibrant atmosphere.

The area is known for its unique independent bars and restaurants and stunning apartments such as Smithfield Buildings, which sold Manchester’s first £300,000 flat in 1996.

From gyms to department stores and iconic emporium Afflecks, the Northern Quarter offers a quirky charm.

It is conveniently located close to the main shopping area with excellent public transport options including buses and trams and close to Piccadilly train and bus stations.

Julie’s sight: “The Northern Quarter is Manchester’s Notting Hill, with record stores, quirky cafes and independent bars.

“It attracts a diverse crowd of artists, musicians and young professionals.

“I remember having breakfast for those people who had stayed overnight to get their hands on apartments in Smithfield Buildings, this area has so much to offer.

“You will never be bored here.”

Castlefield

Castlefield is a picturesque and historic area known for its canals, Roman ruins and preserved industrial heritage.

It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with scenic waterway walks, green spaces and a selection of waterfront bars and restaurants.

With the beautiful addition of Castlefield Viaduct and being a stone’s throw from the noise of Castlefield Bowl – this is undoubtedly one of the town’s highlights.

Castlefield is perfect for those who appreciate history and nature whilst being close to the heart of the city centre.

The area often hosts outdoor events, making it a lively yet relaxed part of Manchester.

The area became a residential center in the late 1980s with developments such as Castle Quay and Middle Warehouse.

Offering a mix of warehouse conversions and modern developments, Castlefield offers peaceful living spaces with easy access to bars, restaurants and the town center via a footbridge.

Transport is excellent with the M602 to Liverpool, the ring road to the M56 and Manchester International Airport close by.

Deansgate station is a key station for the tube and rail lines.

Julie’s sight: “Castlefield is a wonderfully quiet part of town, an unspoilt area with cobbled streets and fantastic water views, over the years the boundaries of Castlefield have been stretched as everyone wants this address.”

The village

The Village, one of the UK’s most famous gay districts, offers vibrant nightlife and charming property conversions around Canal Street.

Known for its rich history and the annual Manchester Pride festival, the village has transformed from an industrial area into a vibrant and inclusive community.

Living spaces in the Village range from Granby Village, with its exclusive pool and gym, to stylish conversions on Sackville, Whitworth and Bloom streets.

Despite limited parking, its central location means a car is not necessary.

Julie’s sight: “The village is always buzzing with activity, making it perfect for those who want to be in the center of the action.

“It’s a unique and fascinating area, 42-44 Sackville Street was one of the first developments we sold, it was one of those developments that you fall in love with.”

How Manchester has changed in the last 30 years

Over the past three decades, Manchester has undergone impressive changes in its main neighbourhoods.

From the historic appeal of Castlefield to the vibrant culture of the Northern Quarter and the exciting developments of Salford and Salford Quays, each area has its own distinct appeal.

Julie Twist said she was “incredibly proud” to have been heavily involved in parts of this transformation, seeing many derelict buildings transformed into luxury accommodation and vast car parks growing into flats with incredible views.

She said: “In the 1990s I think the tallest building was the CSI Tower in the Northern Quarter, at 25 storeys.

“I sometimes wish the younger generation could visualize what it was and the hard work that went into creating the city it is today.

“And it is, an incredible city.”

For more detailed area guides, visit the Julie Twist Properties website Here and discover how Manchester has evolved into one of the UK’s most exciting cities to live in.

You can learn more about Julie Twist Properties by clicking Here