Rochdale's plan to uncover hidden medieval bridge

The medieval bridge

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Plans to uncover Rochdale’s forgotten medieval heritage by re-opening the river that flows through the town centre and restoring a rare but hidden bridge are progressing after planning permission was granted this week to undertake the work.

The scheme will see three sections of the River Roch uncovered revealing the historic multi-phased bridge, together with the restoration of the surrounding habitat.

For over a century the river has been hidden, running through a culvert in the heart of the town centre. The culvert is made up of 12 different phases, most of which are 20th century infill structures that join together earlier bridges. Rochdale Bridge is the core historical bridge comprised of five phases from Medieval to Regency in date. The building of the first phase of the bridge is most likely to have occurred in the 13th or early 14th century.

The work will build on the historical character of the area and offer residents and visitors an attractive environment to visit and appreciate.

The town has a rich heritage with some of the finest buildings in the United Kingdom, including the fantastic town hall. The river and Rochdale Bridge have been hidden for over a century, in fact many people won’t even have realised that they exist. Re-opening the river is another huge step in Rochdale’s regeneration.

The Environment Agency has already committed £500,000 for the scheme which is expected to cost £3.5 million.

We have submitted a Heritage Grant Bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund which includes the conservation of the medieval bridge and a programme of activities to involve local communities with the project.