A unique photography exhibition charting nearly 50 years of Salford life is soon to open, bringing together striking images from the past and present in one compelling display.

The exhibition features photographs taken in 1977 across Langworthy, Weaste, Ordsall and the Adelphi area by photographers Steve Chapman and Phil Portus. Their work captures everyday life in Salford during a time of significant change, offering a powerful snapshot of the city’s social history.

For many years, the images remained largely unseen, until Phil Portus showcased his work at Cornerstone in Langworthy in 2024. This was followed by a second exhibition from Steve Chapman at the same venue in 2025, helping to reintroduce the collection to a wider audience.

Now, the project has taken on a new dimension. Both photographers have teamed up with A Level students Ella Fletcher and Reede Wallace from Pendleton Sixth Form College, who have contributed their own contemporary photographs of Salford. The result is a thoughtful comparison between past and present, highlighting how the city has evolved while retaining its strong sense of identity.

The exhibition, hosted at the Height library, aims to create an ongoing visual documentary of Salford, celebrating its people, places and community spirit across generations.

Visitors can explore the exhibition during library opening hours from the 21st of April 2026, with the display running until Saturday 25th July, closing at 1pm.

Opening times are Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 5.30pm, and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. The library is closed on Mondays and Sundays, and visitors should note that on weekdays the building closes between 12.30pm and 1.30pm.

For more information, visitors can contact the library on 0161 921 2240 or via email at height.library@scll.co.uk.

Phill Portus spoke to Tony Flynn about the exhibition on our Live @ The Lads Club on Wednesday 25th March 2026.