Public gets say in £250m regeneration of Rochdale

PLANS for Rochdale town centre’s £250m regeneration are on view for public consultation.

Visitors to an exhibition in the town are being invited to comment on the development framework, a planning document which cover aspects of the scheme such as layout, access and general design.

Rochdale Council bosses say the development framework and feedback it receives will guide a more detailed planning application to be submitted later this year.

The plan is expected to include retail retail, cinema, bars, restaurants and other uses, as well as car parking.

The consultation is being run by Rochdale Council and the Rochdale Development Agency in collaboration with their development partner Genr8 Developments.

Chief executive of Rochdale Council Steve Rumbelow  said: “This is an important next step in the Council’s commitment to rejuvenate Rochdale town centre.

“There is still a lot of work ahead but this consultation will help Genr8 our development partner to bring forward detailed proposals and submit a planning application later in the year.”

Partner at Genr8 Developments Mike Smith said: “We are now in the position of negotiating with potential occupiers with real confidence about the development timetable.

“This is a prime site right in the heart of the town centre and immediately next to a new bus station and the Metrolink terminus, the iconic new Council offices and library. We are really excited about this opportunity and believe others will be as well.”