Restoration projects win design awards

The restoration of two semi-detached houses at 51-53 Rochdale Road, Middleton won the ‘People’s Design Award’

Two restoration projects were presented with awards as the best in building design at the Rochdale Borough Design Awards at Rochdale Town Hall.

The restoration of two semi-detached houses at 51-53 Rochdale Road, Middleton - originally designed by the renowned architect Edgar Wood - won the ‘People’s Design Award’.

The River Roch re-opening in Rochdale town centre won the ‘Rochdale Borough Design Award’.

The event was opened by Mark Robinson, assistant director of planning at Rochdale Borough Council and the trophies were presented by John Jones, Regional Design Director from awards sponsor Countryside Properties.

Councillor Janet Emsley, the council’s cabinet Member for neighbourhoods, community and culture said: “It is very pleasing that an independent panel of judges have recognised the river re-opening project which has transformed the look of Rochdale town centre as well as providing much needed flood defences. This award is for everyone who worked so hard to bring the river-reopening to fruition, and acknowledges the drive and determination of a real team effort.”

Councillor June West, chairwoman of Middleton Township and a board member of the Middleton Townscape Heritage Initiative, said: “The skill and delicacy with which the restoration of this pair of Grade 2 listed properties have been undertaken is superb and the work has ensured that the special architectural and historic interest of these important buildings will be preserved.

"I would like to thank everyone who voted for us and I know everyone associated with 51-53 Rochdale Road including their residents are absolutely thrilled."

Councillor Daalat Ali, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for planning & development visited the nominated buildings, he said: “We have seen another high quality set of entries competing for the awards, each of them making a significant contribution to the local environment and benefiting its community.  All our winners and nominated buildings deserve much credit.”

Nominees who will receive a certificate of commendation are:

• Refurbishment and extension to the ‘Bird at Birtle’
• Flats at Daventry Road, Kirkholt
• Refurbishment of Newgate House, Tetrosyl headquarters
• Refurbishment of the Wellington Hotel
• Houses at Longridge Drive, Heywood.