Property developer Urban Splash has announced that a new marina and park are set to open in Manchester this summer as part of the New Islington scheme.

Canal works have now commenced in order to allow boats to sail into the centre of the East Manchester site, with the Rochdale and Ashton canals being connected with the marina. The Northwest Regional Development Agency has contributed £4.4m towards public realm improvements as part of the scheme, which are due for completion by the summer.

New Islington is also being led by Urban Splash in partnership with New East Manchester; the Homes and Communities Agency; Manchester City Council; and Great Places Housing Group. Urban Splash director Richard Hattan said: "It's going to be a real city treasure and somewhere office workers can bring their lunch or families can enjoy at the weekends.

"We even have our own park keeper on site to keep the area looking fantastic and assist visitors who are mooring there."