St Andrew’s Church on the move

The new St Andrew’s Church in Rochdale

St Andrew’s Methodist and United Reformed Church in Rochdale is on the move – but it’s not going far.

The current building, on Smith Street, occupies part of the site required for the multi-million pound new shopping and leisure development which is a key element of the regeneration of the town centre.

The church is relocating to a purpose-built facility just across the road on Entwisle Road.

The relocation is a joint venture between the church and Rochdale Borough Council.

The Revd Carolyn White, minister of St Andrew’s, said: “A church has stood on the present site since 1854 and been witness of many changes in the life of the town but it is clearly time for change and we see our relocation as a good news story.

“We’re really pleased with the plans and look forward to moving into the building in 2013.

“It not only allows for the redevelopment of Rochdale town centre but also gives us a new church building in a central location that’s convenient for our congregation and the many groups who make use of our premises.”

The new building will contain a multi-use worship space and café area in the foyer and community facilities to meet the church’s current and future needs.

The Reverend Ron Hicks, the Methodist superintendent minister of the Rochdale and Littleborough Circuit, added: “This is a great opportunity for our mission and ministry within the town centre. It will provide excellent premises from which both the joint congregations and other Christian organisations can reach out to the town and its people.”

The existing premises on Smith Street will remain in use until the new building is ready to be moved into in early summer 2013.

Councillor Peter Williams, the council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Economic Development, added: “It’s great that we’ve been able to work with the church to find a solution that suits everyone – the church and its congregation will get a building comparable to their existing one and we’ll get the land needed for the regeneration of the town centre.

“The Smith Street site forms part of the planned new shopping and leisure development which, together with the new library and council offices, the leisure centre and the transport interchange will totally transform Rochdale.”

St Andrew’s is holding an open morning from 10 – 11.30am on Tuesday 20 December where everyone is welcome to view and discuss the plans for the new building over a cup of coffee and a mince pie.