First stage of Rochdale gasholder demolition complete

One of the two gasholders that was removed

Work to remove two gas holders from the former Rochdale Gasworks close to the town centre is complete.

The third, and largest, holder is still standing and plans to take it down are being finalised. National Grid says it will let local residents know when this work is scheduled.

During the demolition National Grid donated the manufacturer’s plate from one of the holders, along with a number of framed historical pictures of Rochdale gasworks, to Rochdale’s Touchstones Arts and Heritage Centre.

The gas holders once formed part of the expansive Rochdale Gasworks, opened in 1824, and the donation will ensure this element of Rochdale’s industrial history can be preserved for future generations.

Land Regeneration Manager, Katherine Scargill, said: “This phase of our work in Rochdale has come to a close. We always look to give something back to the area when we undertake a project like this, and we are delighted our work has been able to preserve the gasworks heritage for the local community.

"We would like to thank our site neighbours for their patience while this work has been going.”