Search launched for developer to deliver town centre transformation

Date published: 16/02/2007

Developers are being invited to tender for the delivery of £100 million proposals to transform Rochdale town centre into a modern core with new shops, offices, public spaces and transport links.

Appointing a preferred developer will signal a major step forward in bringing to life the outline proposals which have been created following consultation with local people.

A notice has been placed in the Official Journal of the European Union and the successful developer will be appointed following a three stage process.  The first stage involves developers expressing their interest before the deadline of the 14 March.

Selected applicants will then be given a brief and will be asked to produce early proposals together with costs by early summer.  A shortlist of developers will consult the public with their more detailed proposals in September, with a preferred developer selected by the end of autumn. 

The outline proposals jointly developed by Rochdale Development Agency and Rochdale Council include:

• A major extension of the existing retail centre creating improved pedestrian links across the town centre.
• New state-of-the-art office developments and new civic facilities.
• Transforming the River Roch frontage into a fashionable district with cafes, restaurants, apartments and offices overlooking the river.
• Creation of a user friendly car park to attract shoppers 

John Hudson, Chief Executive of Rochdale Development Agency, said: "We expect that there will be a lot of interest from the private sector. The proposals offer a major opportunity to use significant public and private investment to revitalise the town centre and transform the way the current retail heart looks and performs. 

"We are committed to working with the public and local businesses to ensure the plans meet their needs and have their support.  The borough has great potential and these plans are all about offering better choices and opportunities for local people and businesses."

Rochdale is a regeneration hotbed, with plans progressing well for the £350 million Kingsway Business Park and significant investment in homes through the Oldham Rochdale Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder. Metrolink has also been confirmed, which will also encourage people to live and work in the borough.

Early site preparation work for a new transport interchange, on Smith Street, undertaken by Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE), is expected to be finished by late summer. 

The plans involve relocating the current bus station to a new, high quality interchange.  It is expected that in time the proposed town centre Metrolink terminus will be located there.

Development of the design of the station and public consultation will take place through this year and early next year and building work is expected to start in mid 2008.