Iconic control tower of swing bridge across the ship canal to go under the hammer

A historic control tower that once controlled the swing bridge linking road traffic between Salford and Trafford goes under the hammer soon with a guide price of between £50,000 to £100,000.

The three-storey Grade II-listed Trafford Road Bridge Control Tower is now derelict and is set to be sold to the highest bidder by Auction House North West - an online event on September 7.

It dates back to 1894 when the Manchester Ship Canal opened, forming the road linking Salford Docks with the Trafford Park industrial estate.

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The bridge was the largest, heaviest and widest of the seven swing bridges that once crossed the ship canal and has been hailed as an iconic piece of 19th century engineering.

It was permanently opened to vehicles 31 years ago and in 1998 a scheme to widen the road to a dual carriageway was carried out to improve traffic.

Auction House’s website says the building would suit a variety of uses, but has advised potential buyers to consult Salford city planning department over any intended use for the building.

The building holds a prominent position fronting Trafford Road (A5063) which links Chester Road (A56) to Regent Road (A57) at the end of the M602. It backs on to Clippers Quay in Salford Quays and is close to Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium.