The Changing Face of Trafford: Sale

Sale shopping precinct was constructed in the late 1960s/early 1970s. The town enjoyed the presence of some multiple stores such as Boots, W.H. Smith and the new development provided a small, covered precinct, known as Six Acres Walk.[i] Traditional shopping was still available on School Road but suffered during the 1980s as a result of Altrincham’s redevelopment.

In 2024 Sale shopping centre has had a major upgrade. It is still focussed on the Square, now renamed Stanley Square, and the shops in the pedestrianised School Road. For food shopping a large Sainsbury’s supermarket, a Tesco Superstore and a Marks and Spencer’s Food Hall sit behind the main shopping area. There is also an Aldi store in School Road.

The recent refurbishment of the Square has attracted new providers to the town who are offering a wider variety of retail and places to eat. The public realm has been improved and is a more attractive environment than previously.

The development of the Waterside Arts Centre, opened in 2004 has diversified the offer in Sale and is bringing more people in in the evening.

Sale has its fair share of office accommodation, mainly situated alongside the A56, Cross Street, where there are still a few shops.

Article researched and written by Trafford Local Studies volunteer Richard Nelson

Sources

[i] Bernard Thorpe & Partners for Trafford M.B.C., Trafford Shopping Study Main Report, September 1986, Sep 1986, Trafford Local Studies, TRA/4/3/2/2.