BDP wins competition to revamp Rochdale

Its winning design features glass viewing platforms to enable visitors to see the exposed bridges in more detail, as well as extensive greenery around the site.Alan Davies, architect director at BDP, said: ‘’We are delighted to be selected and look forward to working with Rochdale Council to develop our winning proposals for the town. The town’s centre has great character which our designs aim to enhance.’The plan sets out to create a high-quality environment which is responsive to both the wealth of historic buildings and the town’s medieval bridge, Davies explains, which will be uncovered and repaired as part of the river’s reopening. ‘Also integral to our design concept is the interpretation of Rochdale’s rich history as a centre of textile manufacture, radical politics and the co-operative movement,’ he says.

Other shortlisted practices included Adam Khan Architects, Atkins, Bauman Lyons and Land Use Consultants. Rochdale Council leader Colin Lambert commented on the difficulty of choosing a winner ‘from such an exceptional shortlist’. But BDP’s design, he says, really stood out. ‘This is an incredibly exciting project and a critical part of our regeneration plans. Along with our £100m development agreement, it will move us closer to the fantastic town centre our residents and visitors deserve.’

BDP will now work the design up in more detail before resubmitting it to the council. The second-stage bid for Heritage Lottery money to reopen the river will be submitted later this month with the council expecting the results in the summer.