An emporium of eclecticism in Rochdale?

Greg Couzens

Afflecks Palace in Manchester describes itself as an emporium of eclecticism, a totem of indie commerce and above all else a fantastic place to shop for anything from top hats to tattoos.

Would it work in Rochdale?

Councillor Greg Couzens thinks so and is proposing Rochdale Council open a similar establishment in Rochdale Town Centre.

Talking to Rochdale Online, Councillor Couzens said: "There are a lot of empty properties in the town centre that we could use to give creative people an opportunity to to be part of a professional setup. We are looking at seventeen potential sites"

"Since I first proposed the idea it has sparked real interest; there are lots of talented creative people in Rochdale and they would benefit hugely from the opportunity to trade without being encumbered by long term commitments and in an environment were they get business help and support.

"From the public's viewpoint, they would have a fantastic new place to shop offering something very different.

"Creativity could be Rochdale’s unique selling point."

Councillor Couzens envisages the council either buying or leasing a suitable empty property and employing a manager to oversee day to day running, but with the intent that the venture should be at least a break even if not be profit making for the council. However, he was keen to stress that the rents to occupants would have to be kept low and space made available on a short term basis.

Rochdale Online asked people in Rochdale town centre earlier today (Monday 10 August) what they thought of the idea and the general consensus was it is a very good idea and one that would "capture people's imagination". A typical reaction came from Frank Andrews who said: "I think it's a great idea, I only hope it happens, we do need something to pick the town centre up and this could be just the thing."

Maria Foster agreed saying: “It is about time someone in the council came up with a good idea, well done Councillor Couzens, now let’s see it happen please.”

Student Tom Butterworth, who has shopped at Afflecks in Manchester regualrly, added: "It is a pretty good idea, I think it will capture people's imagination, I would shop in it. I like the idea of lots of different stalls under one roof. I think it would work because we have nothing in Rochdale catering for that market."