Central Bay Waterfront Terrace

Central Bay is at the heart of the transformation of Quayside MediaCity’s southern canal side walkway into a vibrant, urban waterfront destination. This ambitious £3.5 million project is part of a broader five-year redevelopment plan by Peel L&P, which aims to create a dynamic community hub that highlights local food and drink independents. Central to this development is the prestigious Kargo MKT food hall, alongside a microbrewery, extensive outdoor terraces, and a series of waterfront containers for start-up vendors. The redevelopment builds on the legacy of MediaCity, which is renowned for its status as the world’s first BREEAM Sustainable Community and winner of the Regeneration Project of the Year at the MIPIM UK Awards 2015.

Project Breakdown

Central Bay is a pivotal element in the broader revitalization of the waterfront. The development features the 20-kitchen Kargo MKT food hall, a 7,000 sq ft microbrewery called 11 Central, and five shipping container kitchens providing a variety of food options. It also includes a 2,000 sq ft south-facing outdoor terrace that can accommodate up to 600 visitors. This terrace is designed with a large waterfront decking area, bespoke seating, and planters across multiple levels. The entire project is thoughtfully integrated with MediaCity’s existing infrastructure, which comprises two residential towers, a 200-key hotel, speculative office buildings, and a tri-generation energy centre.

The Solution

To meet the demands of a high-traffic waterfront environment while providing a pleasing visual experience, the project uses oak composite decking and Manticore plastic lumber. These materials were chosen for their exceptional durability and resistance to the elements, essential for the outdoor setting near the canal. The light brown oak colour of the composite decking blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors. Manticore plastic lumber offers excellent resistance to moisture and decay, ensuring that the decking areas remain functional and appealing over time. This combination of materials supports the project's sustainability goals and guarantees long-term performance, reflecting MediaCity’s commitment to innovative and enduring design.