Major arts development in Rochdale gets go ahead

Plans for the redevelopment of a major arts and heritage venue in Rochdale have been given the green light by planners.

Work at Touchstones Rochdale, which became a member of Arts Council England's National Portfolio for the first time last year, will see the venue transformed into a creative and cultural hub featuring new flexible performance and production spaces for artists, as well as improved areas for training, live events and exhibitions.

The project is funded by the Cultural Development Fund as part of an £8.5m investment into arts and culture across the borough, with work due to commence in the spring. Arts Council England administers the fund on behalf of the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and Rochdale Borough Council.

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Rochdale Council said the project forms a key part of plans to establish a creative district in Rochdale town centre, which include the refurbishment of Rochdale Town Hall, a new town hall square, the Fire Up digital and creative co-working space, new artist workspaces on Richard Street as well as new public art, signage and marketing.

Sue Smith, Cabinet Member for Communities and Co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “We are very grateful for the Arts Council support, which is enabling us to significantly upgrade Touchstones Rochdale and create new cultural projects which will help to boost visitor numbers, support local businesses and drive economic growth.

"Work will start on site soon, turning the building into something truly wonderful and fit for the 21st Century, creating more opportunities for local people and visitors to enjoy culture in Rochdale.”

Jen Cleary, director of North Arts Council England, said: “Rochdale is a priority place for our funding, and so it is great to see the redevelopment of Touchstones Rochdale taking place this spring, thanks to investment through the Cultural Development Fund. 

"The establishment of a creative hub in the town centre will attract new audiences to an array of exciting performances, events and exhibitions as well as supporting the local economy. This project is an excellent example of how partnership working can transform places."