A bridge to a better Rochdale

Date published: 09 June 2016

Shoppers have been enjoying their first steps over the new bridge as the barriers start to come down around the river re-opening project in Rochdale town centre.

It is now possible to view the water running beneath, which locals say is already drastically improving town centre scenery.

Numerous posts are being shared from people who have been to see for themselves, and the reports are generally ones of widespread approval.

Greg Couzens, who campaigned for the Revealing the Roch project, told Rochdale Online: “It's been a long time to come to fruition.

"The craftsmanship is exceptional.

"A huge thank you to all the officers and general public for making this happen.

"Let this be the catalyst to taking the town forward, placing us in the media spotlight for the right reasons, this is our town, be proud.”

He added: “The official opening day is on the 25 June, this will be a memorable day in the history books, be part of it and do call down. Who knows, if the Victorian market is a success then it could be a regular feature.

"The eyes of the world will be upon us, let's give it our full support.”

The 'Revealing the Roch' town centre plan recently won the Excellence in Planning for the Natural Environment category in the Royal Town Planning Institute’s (RTPI) Awards for Planning Excellence 2016. It was also nominated in the Excellence in Planning for Heritage category.

The official ribbon-cutting grand opening will take place on Saturday 25 June.