A public consultation has been launched on plans to transform the former Central Retail Park into a thriving new town centre community – which is set to feature a mix of 200 houses and apartments (ranging from one to five-beds).
Local residents are now being encouraged to give their thoughts on Neighbourhood Rochdale ahead of the brownfield site’s renovation.
Designed to breathe life back into the area, Neighbourhood Rochdale will feature “stunning, design-led homes with beautiful architecture”, including modern, open plan layouts and energy efficient tech (plus electric vehicle charging).
The site will also include a food hall, general store, café-bar and flexible communal space, along with plenty of outdoor spaces for residents and the wider community to enjoy.
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The Rochdale plans also include a public linear park, with circuit training equipment, self-timed sprint track, kids’ play area, an outdoor pavilion for events and BBQ areas.
Capital & Centric
Tim Heatley, co-founder of Capital & Centric said: “Neighbourhood Rochdale goes beyond just building new homes, it’s about rebooting the town centre and creating a proper community where you can get to know your neighbours and make new friends.
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“That’s why we’ve included tons of shared spaces, which could be used for everything from yoga classes to kids’ parties or even a cinema night, and meeting pods for people working from home, and there’s also the food hall and outdoor events pavilion to bring in people from the wider community.
“As you’d expect from us, it’s going to be very green, with beautiful terraces for all the houses and lots of landscaped spaces and lush lawns.
“We’ve got loads of ideas but want to know what local people think so give us a shout”.
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Located just a short walk from both the Metrolink and train station – which offer an easy commute into Manchester city centre and access to the Peak District by public transport – the Central Retail Park site has been vacant for nearly a decade.
These new plans are part of the £400 million regeneration of Rochdale town centre and the council’s rail strategy, which will “level up the town centre” with 7,000 homes around the borough’s five railway stations.
Councillor John Blundell – Cabinet Member for Economy and Communications at Rochdale Borough Council – added: “I’d urge locals to get involved in this consultation, so they can help to shape what I’m sure will be a thriving new town centre community.”
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Keen to have your say?
With a public consultation that closes on Friday 4 June, there are lots of ways that people can join the conversation and all feedback will be used to help shape the plans.
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A newsletter has been sent to over 5,000 households and businesses in the area with a tear-off freepost questionnaire (whcih can also be completed online here).
Residents can also join a live online Q&A with the team on Wednesday 26 May at 6pm, with sign-up via the website.
You can also ask any questions by calling 0800 689 1095 or emailing [email protected].
It is expected that a planning application will be submitted to Rochdale Borough Council in the summer.
Featured Image – Capital & Centric
Rochdale
A Manc’s guide to: Rochdale, the Northern town whose reputation precedes it
Thomas Melia
It’s a well known fact that Rochdale has received a bad rep, but this town has a fair few hidden gems waiting for people to try them – and don’t knock it ’til you’ve checked these out.
Well, well, well I’ve been trusted with the job of writing a guide to my hometown, and as someone who is self-proclaimed ‘Rochdale born and bred’, you can guarantee this guide is packed with all the best bits this small but mighty town has to offer.
I have gone against the famous saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ with the title but it’s safe to say that Rochdale has had its fair share of slander, even by the people that live here.
But one thing is for sure, we don’t half have some good spots that are well and truly slept on.
If there’s one thing Rochdale is sure to sort you out with it’s a good hearty meal, a nice brisk walk and some top notch night time locations, this town has got you covered.
Food and drink
Rochdale guide – SuburbThe Martlet in Rochdale
Suburb – Instagramable and tasty, this cafe and restaurant has everything you could need from gorgeous hot chocolates to irresistible pastries. Avocado toast girlies, this one’s for you, the egg menu is chef’s kiss.
Pavilion – Nothing quite hits the spot like a good curry and Pavilion have got this dish mastered. Sit under a flowery ceiling while eating some floury offerings like their poppadoms with pickle trays and soft doughy naans, and of course these are paired with their wonderful curry variations.
The Martlet – Fine diners unite, this exquisite kitchen is serving up some local and luxury cuisine that’s situated in Rochdale’s most gorgeous site, Rochdale Town Hall. Expect proper northern dishes like bacon chop crispy, Scotch eggs made with Bury Black Pudding, and hearty puddings.
Vicolo Del Vino – Just next door is this gorgeous wine cellar and after stuffing your face with small plates, there’s only one remedy to wash it down with, wine. Still peckish? Order a bowl of tiramisu, because what good night ended with a salad?
La Mancha – Everyone boasts about the Mediterranean diet, well Rochdale’s been doing it since 1998. Tucked away down a ginnel on Bull Brow is La Mancha, with plenty for seafood fans, chorizo lovers and veggies alike.
Pavilion Indian restaurant in RochdaleThe Baum pub in Rochdale
The Baum – A place which serves proper ‘pub grub’. Located on Toad Lane, which is like a mini window into Rochdale’s past, sit back, unwind and undo your jean button because you’re about to eat one of the best cheese and onion pies of your life.
Russells – There’s one thing every town needs and that’s a right good caff, Russells is Rochdale’s equivalent. Full English, toasties, jacket potatoes, you can’t go wrong with these lunchtime favourites, and if you’ve left room for more, try a jam and cream scone, absolute heaven.
Milnrow Balti House – This curry house has built quite the name for itself winning numerous awards, most notably, in 2023 winning ‘Best Restaurant in the North West’ doubling down on this by also achieving ‘Champion of Champions’ the same year.
Mr. Thomas’ – Nothing beats chippy chips especially when you can eat them with lovely scenery of Rochdale’s main attraction, Hollingworth Lake.
Bella Vista – This place takes ‘Food with a view’ to a whole new meaning. Not only are you being presented with some of the best Italian home comforts, you’re accompanied with a picturesque bird’s eye view of this lovely town and beyond. Bellissima!
Nightlife and Hotels
Hoochi Koochi – Think 42’s but on a much smaller and intimate setting. Much like the Manchester staple night out venue, there are numerous famous faces adorning these walls and you’ll hear some of the best indie and rock classics.
Hogarths – Ever fancied drinking in an impressive and historic old bank? Enjoy a drink or two in the heart of Rochdale’s town centre while admiring this public house’s grand interior. One of the old safe rooms even doubles as a karaoke booth.
Empire – Rihanna, Tina Turner, ABBA, you name it they’ve played here – tributes of course! Either way, you’re guaranteed a good turnout at this late night establishment.
In terms of hotels… there’s a Hampton by Hilton right in the centre of town if not try staying near Hollingworth Lake, trust me it’s stunning.
Music and culture
Volunteers at the Fireground MuseumThe Fireground museum
Rochdale Town Hall – After years of painstaking work, the magnificent, historic Rochdale Town Hall reopened its doors to the public last year following its multi-million pound revamp. This incredible building is packed with history, sweeping staircases, and hand-painted walls and ceilings. A must-visit.
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Touchstones Museum – Currently undergoing a refurbishment, this is your go-to for any Rochdale history related queries, you name it, they usually know the answer. It’s very interactive and perfect for any age, especially kids.
Fireground Museum – Rochdale’s old fire station is now an engaging and interesting building dedicated to the history of fire and rescue in Greater Manchester. The site showcases a handful of old engines, an onsite cafe, and the volunteers on hand are all ex-fire workers, wow.
Rochdale Pioneers Museum – The birthplace of The Co-operative Group and that proper pub grub we mentioned earlier is just next door. Once you’ve enriched yourself in culture, you have to enrich yourself in a hearty homemade meal as well, right?
Rochdale has a rich music history
Music – Did you know that Joy Division recorded their music here from 1978 onwards and even had equipment custom built into the recording studio ground floor on Kenion Street?
The same recording studios were used to film ’24 Hour Party People’, in a scene that recreated the New Order and Joy Division drummer Stephen Morris playing his drums on the roof of the building.
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Rochdale is also home to local star and hitmaker Lisa Stansfield whose 1989 single ‘All Around The World’ topped the UK charts alongside groundbreaking album ‘Affection’ released the same year.
And you can’t mention music without paying homage to ‘Our Gracie’. Perched outside our iconic town hall, is triple threat Gracie Fields, who contributed to film, music and TV – the 1930’s equivalent to Taylor Swift.
Walking routes
Greenbooth in summer. Credit: The Manc GroupGreenbooth in the autumn
Hollingworth Lake – This is an accessible and flat walk suitable for all and if you’ve worked up an appetite there’s an ice cream truck courtesy of Northern sweet-treat greats Grandpa Greene’s on Lake Bank.
Greenbooth Reservoir– Situated in Naden Valley, there’s three different reservoirs to walk around, you can choose how many you feel like tackling. A real hidden beauty spot.
Healey Dell – There’s grand arches, big trees and a nice cake and a cuppa waiting for you in the nearby tearoom.
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Wardle Reservoir – A dog friendly circular trail around a man made reservoir. If there hasn’t been a downpour for a while, you can catch a glimpse of the old village that’s now underwater.
Purple Plaque Trail – Rochdale have purple plaques dedicated to their favourite daughter, Gracie Fields. You can visit nine town centre locations relating to the northern star, check out the trail HERE.
Transport
Rochdale Town Centre is the very last stop on the Metrolink dropping you in the middle of all the action and helpfully right next to the town’s bus station too.
There are also excellent train links with Manchester and beyond.
If you enjoy your own company the M62 is close by, why not take a trip over the hill to Huddersfield, you can even make a pitstop in Oldham on your journey home.
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Shopping
This borough is home to some lovely little independent retailers ranging from clothes and records to trinkets and cakes, it really does have it all.
Butterworth’s – An independent retailer that has sat on the streets of Rochdale for over 40 years bringing the biggest brands like Adidas, Berghaus and Fila.
Okeechobee – Marketed as a ‘Ladies’ Boutique’, this vendor sells everything you can think of including chunky knits and formal office wear.
Rocks Off – Adorning Drake Street for over 30 years with music releases from all the greats, Rocks Off brings Rochdale physical music to Rochdale, like vinyl, cd’s and even cassettes.
Little Gift Box – Halfway between Rochdale town centre and Littleborough, this family-owned business stocks cute decorations and ornaments, as well as wholesome cards and keepsakes.
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Brown’s Cakes – Not hard to miss, if the bright pink shop front doesn’t entice you in, the cakes in the window will. Everyday is your birthday over at Brown’s, after all that shopping you deserve a treat.
Property
House prices in Rochdale have an overall average of £217,343 over the last year.
The majority of properties sold in this borough over the last twelve months were terraced, selling for £156,553 on average.
Other properties include semi-detached which sold for an average of £209,529, and detached properties fetching £343,025.
The best afternoon teas in Manchester
Thomas Melia
Afternoon tea has been a British staple since 1840, luckily for us, Manchester has a great selection of places serving this midday tradition.
If there’s one thing Manchester does best after music, sport, style and, you know, everything else it’s definitely food and drink, especially British classics.
There’s nothing better than a good sandwich followed by a sumptuously sweet scone, and a dazzling selection of cakes.
However, if you put all of those things together and bring it out on a meticulously-organised, multi-tiered serving platter, you’ve got the key to the nation’s heart.
When it comes down to afternoon tea we certainly don’t mess around and that’s why here at The Mancwe’ve put together a list of all the best dining experiences that are worth every single penny.
The top 10 afternoon teas in Manchester
1. Kimpton Clocktower, The Refuge
Credit: Supplied
This historic building is serving up elevated classics that you would expect on your typical afternoon tea platter including sandwiches with fillings like truffled egg mayonnaise as well as smoked salmon and pickled cucumber.
Pair these nibbles with all your go-to cuppa choices such as an earl grey and peppermint black, or sample ‘The Refuge blend’ – a fruity and herbal infusion with rosehip, hibiscus, peppermint, blackcurrant, and strawberry leaves.
Once your sweet tooth kicks in, there’s a variety of sweet delicacies with their glazed lemon meringue pie and obvious breadwinner, the treasured scones.
Nothing says grandeur like dining in The Midland and their afternoon tea options are certainly not subtle in any way, shape or form either.
Sandwich fillings are not limited, there’s avocado and chive, chicken, tomato and basil, with many vegan alternatives like the coronation tofu and watercress.
All their scones are served plain however they do offer you Devon cream and a helping of Mrs Darlington’s jam, yum.
Where to find: 16 Peter St, Manchester M60 2DS
Price: £45 – £55 per person
3. Grandpa Greene’s, Diggle
Credit: The Manc Group
Ever fancied eating an afternoon tea in an igloo without the below-minus temperature? Well after this you definitely will.
Known and loved for their unreal ice creams, Grandpa Greene‘s are also all-around food caterers and their Afternoon Tea isn’t one you should be missing out on.
Enjoy treats, canapés, and of course, milkshakes made with that ridiculously moreish GG’s ice cream.
Where to find: Ward Ln, Diggle, Oldham OL3 5JT
Price: £24.95 – £29.95 per person
4. King Street Townhouse
Credit: The Manc Group
Quoted on their website as a ‘memorable Manchester experience’, there are two afternoon tea options to choose from.
Indulge in all the sweet treats you can possibly imagine with the ‘Traditional’ serving or if you’re someone who prefers savoury, delight in the ‘High Afternoon Tea’.
The first brings generously sized portions centred around the flavours of the season but always features a scone or two, while the latter sees orzo fritters and cheddar croquettes with cheese and chutney replacing the beloved scone.
This is another city centre hotel that’s putting on a dazzling display of tiered food and definitely not skimping on jam and cream with two pots placed perfectly next to those delicious scones.
There are finger-shaped sandwiches as well as a handful of mini cakes, and the multi-tiered platter exudes the Gotham style with its rose gold-tinged plates and matching teapot.
So why not take your pick at some bite-sized delights while perched high among the Manchester city centre skyline?
Where to find:100 King St, Manchester M2 4WU
Price: From £35 per person
6. The Martlet
Credit: Supplied
Where better to enjoy an afternoon tea than in a historic Greater Manchester building that radiates notoriety and doubles as Rochdale’s newest fine-dining location?
The Martlet is preserving this British cuisine while bringing a modern touch with sandwich fillings like vegetable samosa and raspberry macarons to follow.
Of course, scones paired with the usual egg and cress sandwiches will still be present, but it’s always lovely to see some innovation where possible.
We’re pretty stunned by the whole thing, to be honest.
Where to find: Rochdale Town Hall, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ
Price: £21 per person
7. 20 Stories
Credit: Supplied
This Afternoon Tea reaches new heights, literally. 19 floors above the city centre is 20 Stories, which are branding itself as ‘The highest Afternoon Tea in Manchester’
20 Stories also has an exclusive mini cocktail pairing option where the drinks are hand-selected to go with your Afternoon Tea, because what fun day ever started with water?
Now all that’s left to do is choose between the Traditional, Piper-Heidsieck or Miniature cocktail Afternoon Tea, we’re really spoilt for choice!
Where to find:No. 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman St, Manchester M3 3EB
Price: £37.50 – £62.50 per person
8. The Lowry Hotel, The River Restaurant
Credit: Supplied
Enjoy an Afternoon Tea before heading off to your next theatre show – how could your day get any better?
Sample a turkey and lettuce wrap, smoked salmon, crème cheese and white balsamic ‘on a slider’ and a cheese and ham tart.
Vegans are well catered for too with hummus, red roasted pepper and rocket wrap with vegan cream and jam for the scones!
Price: £30 – £40 per person
9. The East Lancashire Railway
Finger sandwiches, homemade scones and patisserie all onboard a vintage steam train, yes please!
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And to top things off, you’ll have a personal waiter on hand for your whole journey ready to attend to however much unlimited tea and coffee you can manage in 90 minutes.
This experience will be nothing but exceptional and all catering is to very high standards, so sit back, relax and watch the views of Manchester go by.
Their afternoon tea is just one of many luxury packages you can enjoy – here’s another one:
Where to find: Bolton Street Station, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 0EY
Price: £55 per person
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10. Malmaison Manchester, Deansgate
This hotel really takes the concept of afternoon tea and combines it with a polar opposite: street food.
B&G slider, beef brisket bite, tuna taco and buttermilk fried chicken all for savouries with an unreal lineup of sweet tarts.
‘Fab Lollies’, carrot opera cake, choc chip cookie dough sundae, vanilla crème brûlée and to dust it off, a sticky toffee scone.
Emily Sergeant -
21st May 2021 
