River Roch bridge visible

River Roch bridge uncovered

5 More Image(s) In Gallery

Scroll down for Video

The bridge over the River Roch in Rochdale town centre is now visible following the start of demolition work to the culvert (the roof of the river).

Your reporter was taken on a site visit today (Friday 10 July) and was able to see the bridge, which dates back to the Regency and Georgian periods.

To date, stabilisation work has been undertaken prior to the large scale demolition work now taking place.

John Percival, Project Lead, said: “The bridge dates back to about 1821 and the other side goes back to about 1787. It is a very important part of Rochdale’s history. If you look closely, you can see where the bridge had to be widened over time to facilitate the lorries that used it.”

Richard Farnell, Leader of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “It was great to get on site today and see how well this fascinating project is progressing. You can already see both and the Regency and Restoration sections of the Historic bridge and now that much of the preparation work has happened underground, the environment above ground is changing fast.

"Here in Rochdale, we’re incredibly proud of our heritage and it’s exciting to see it being brought so vividly brought back to life.

"It’s clear that this scheme will look fantastic once it’s completed early next year.”

Work on uncovering the River Roch started in March of this year and is slowly taking shape.

The majority of work that has been undertaken so far has included piling on both sides as well as work underground.

The next stages of work will see the walls of the river strengthened to stop them from falling in. This will see concrete beams put in place. It is understood that stone masons will also be on site soon to ensure that the bridge looks its best.

Mr Percival said: “It is hoped that the project will be completed by early January.”