Independent gym agrees 10-year lease at Salford’s Middlewood Locks

An independent gym operator has signed a 10-year lease to open at Middlewood Locks, the £1bn mixed-use development at the gateway between Salford and Manchester city centre.

Forged will take a 4,700 sq ft unit at the development for its first-ever space, which will open in January 2027. The operator has been established by Sam Benjamin, a resident at Middlewood Locks, who also owns Tap House in Manchester and bars in Nottingham.

The unit forms part of Railings, the recently completed third phase of homes and commercial space at Middlewood Locks. The phase includes four units totalling nearly 10,000 sq ft. Further occupiers within Railings are expected to be announced soon.

The privately-owned and operated gym supports Middlewood Locks’ approach to attracting independent businesses and will complement existing amenities, including the Co-op convenience store and 92 Degrees coffee shop.

Sam Benjamin, founder of Forged, said: “Having lived at Middlewood Locks for the past two years, I recognised the opportunity to establish a high-quality gym serving both residents and the surrounding neighbourhood. Forged brings together my commitment to fitness and healthy living with my sporting background and experience in hospitality.

“Our aim is to provide a dedicated strength-training environment, with high-quality equipment and a capped membership, where members feel welcome and comfortable. Alongside the training facilities, we want to build a strong community and give members opportunities to connect through our planned events.”

Paul Kelly, group managing director at Scarborough Group International, which is developing Middlewood Locks, added: “Forged is an excellent addition to Middlewood Locks and reflects our commitment to attracting independent businesses that enhance the neighbourhood. It is particularly rewarding to see a resident establish a business here after experiencing life at Middlewood Locks first-hand.

“The gym will broaden the amenities available to residents and those working locally and Sam’s focus on a welcoming, community-led approach aligns with our vision for Middlewood Locks. The 10-year lease demonstrates a long-term commitment to the neighbourhood, and we look forward to Forged opening in January.”

The wider Middlewood Locks development is home to over 2,600 residents and surrounds the three basins of the Manchester, Bolton, and Bury Canal, connecting Salford with Manchester city centre. Over half of the planned 2,215 homes have been completed, with future plans including additional homes and a further one million sq ft of commercial space, including offices, a hotel, shops, and restaurants.

Middlewood Locks is being delivered by Scarborough Group International in a joint venture with Metro Holdings Limited, a Singapore-listed property development and investment group.

Lyons Thompsons Letts Property Consultants markets the commercial space at Middlewood Locks.