Salford street celebrates the work of a community champion
A brand-new housing scheme in Weaste has named one of the streets in memory of a man who was part of the social fabric of Salford and exemplified the term ‘community spirted.’
Joe Martin was, for many years, the Conservation Officer for Salford City Council and was responsible for the management and preservation of the city’s many and varied environmental and heritage assets that the communities are proud of.
Derive Housing, Salford Council’s own Housing Association and the organisation responsible for the new housing development near Eccles New Road, wanted to recognise Joe’s tireless work and commitment to Salford and felt that naming a street in his honour would be a fitting tribute. Joe lived and worked in the area he loved and was a well-known musical performer with his brother, Pete, across the city. Sadly, Joe passed away in 2010.
Councillor Phil Cusack, Councillor for Weaste and Seedley and Chair of Planning and Transportation Regulatory Panel said: “I knew Joe Martin for many years, attending the same school. Joe was completely passionate about the work that he was involved in and the drive to conserve the rich cultural heritage that our city has to offer. I’m delighted that Joe Martin Street is part of the new housing development and will commemorate him for future generations of Salfordians.”
Pete Martin, brother of Joe, said: "On behalf of myself, our family and friends, I’d like to thank Derive Housing for bestowing this honour on Joe, or ‘our kid’ as we effectively remember him. Joe immersed himself in the conservation and preservation projects that he was responsible for, so to have this recognition for his contribution to the people and the area he loved is a fitting tribute.”
Through Dérive we’re investing in high-quality truly affordable homes for future generations in the city. The rents will be our own Salford rents.