The transformation of Rochdale town centre continues apace

Date published: 02 April 2014

With the Wheatsheaf Centre bridge link removed, the bridge link over Constantine Road also severed, the demolition of bus station making good progress, and the opening of the Smith Street Metrolink stop, opposite the new Transport Interchange and Number One Riverside, the town is already looking very different.

Bus station demolition

As people go in and out of Riverside, in and out of the Transport Interchange and on and off the trams there is a real hustle and bustle and buzz about the town, more so than has been seen for quite some time.

Wheatsheaf Centre bridge link opening

Wheatsheaf Centre bridge link removed

The demolition of the Black Box is still in its early stages but work on removing the town centre's infamous landmark will commence in earnest once the bus station is levelled.

The bridge link over Constantine Road severed

The demolition of the old black box will be a delicate task for Connell’s who will cover it with scaffolding and dismantle it from the top down because of its the proximity to Metrolink and other buildings in the town centre, as well as pavements and roads.

The bridge links gone as the bus station demolition makes good progress

As part of the transformation, work will also soon begin on a new entrance for The Wheatsheaf Shopping Centre on Baillie Street which is expected to be completed by the end of November 2014.

Town Centre Metrolink stop