Rochdale’s pride is set for a new lease of life

[ONE OF THE MOST distinctive buildings in the North West of England is Rochdale Town Hall – widely regarded as one of the UK’s finest examples of Victorian Gothic architecture. Dominating the wide Strand and adjoining Town Hall Square, it stands as a symbol of the wealth and influence the textile industry brought.

The Grade One-listed building was designed by William Crossland and opened in 1871. However, in 1883 a fire ripped through the building and the original tower and spire were demolished. The current iconic tower was built in 1887 to a design by Alfred Waterhouse.

The huge building is currently undergoing a comprehensive restoration and conservation programme, which will result in some parts being opened to the public for the first time and some facilities added. That will include a new Bright Hall – named after the Victorian philanthropist and Rochdale resident John Bright – for smaller-scale community events.

Moreover, a digital scan of the building carried out by the Archaeology Department at Salford University also revealed a treasure trove of forgotten rooms and obscured features.

The works consist of two phases: phase one commenced in January 2021 and is now complete. It involved the removal of asbestos and the old electrical system and the modernising of the roof drainage system. Structural work involved creating openings for new lifts and access points, removing partition walls and mezzanines that had been added in the 20th century. Foundations were put in place for new terracing.

Protection was put in place for the stained glass windows and wood panelling, a new fire protection system was installed and the external stonework was carefully cleaned.

Phase two of the works is currently underway and is due for completion in 2023. That phase involves internal repairs and the restoration of stained glass windows – including the celebrated Cromwell window depicting Charles I, Cromwell and Charles II side-by-side, which was removed and taken to the studios of the York Glaziers’ Trust for preservation – and specialist cleaning of the delicate painted interiors of all the heritage rooms, such as the Great Hall, Mayor’s Parlour and the main reception.

External repairs include roof works, stone repairs and pointing, the replacement of windows to make the Town Hall waterproof and improving roof insulation to make the building more environmentally sustainable.

The Town Hall will become more accessible for all visitors and will provide a safe space that promotes cultural community activities. There will be a new lift and staircase within the clock tower to improve access, with separate access to the Bright Hall on the second floor. Outside, ramps will be put in place for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues and for those visiting with pushchairs.

Alongside the building a new Town Hall Square is being created – a pedestrianised area which will feature plants and lawned areas. A carpet of historic paving stones will feature unique, etched inscriptions inspired by historic symbols found inside the Town Hall. There will also be new benches with designs linked to Rochdale’s history.

Upon reopening in the summer of 2023 the building will once more stand proud as a symbol of Rochdale’s standing in both the Victorian age and the 21st century. q