The transformation of the Grade II listed Broadfield Park Slopes in Rochdale town centre has taken a significant step forward with the appointment of a local contractor to lead the redevelopment.
The Casey Group has been selected to carry out the restoration of the historic slopes (pictured artist’s impression) behind Rochdale Town Hall, situated within the town’s conservation area.
The site, rich in history, features a natural spring that once supplied the Packer Spout fountain, a key element in Rochdale’s industrial development.
As part of the £3 million project, the fountain and its water supply will be reinstated, along with a natural pond further up the slopes. Nearby obelisks will also be repaired, and historic-style lighting will be installed to replicate the original fixtures that once adorned the site.
Pathways across the area will be restored, with the addition of a new accessible route, making Packer Spout fully accessible for the first time. Improved lighting will enhance the space, while a newly created lawn and terraced seating at the base of the slopes will form a natural amphitheatre for events and performances.
Funded by Rochdale Borough Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the scheme also includes a full activity programme to encourage community engagement across all age groups.
An archaeological dig, which unearthed the remains of a wall and drain, thought to date from the 17th or 18th century, has already taken place, and monthly ‘ask an archaeologist’ sessions take place at Rochdale Town Hall. Projects are also ongoing with local schoolchildren and the Young Archaeologist’s Club, a national club for 8-16 year-olds who want to get hands on with archaeology.
The Casey Group, based in Regent Street, Rochdale has delivered a number of projects across the North West, including Rochdale’s own Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum in Maclure Road.
Casey will be employing an apprentice as part of the project and creating a number of work placements, which will focus on supporting the long term unemployed. Site tours will also be offered, so residents can get a flavour of what’s happening on site.
Councillor Danny Meredith said: “Nestled between our recently restored Grade I Listed town hall and the Medieval St Chad’s Church, this area is steeped in history. This fantastic, National Lottery supported project, will help us uncover even more of our borough’s rich heritage and allow our residents to share in the proud stories of Rochdale’s past. Following the extensive restoration of Rochdale Town Hall, as well the work to transform Town Hall Square and the area around the cenotaph, this is the last piece of the jigsaw.
“I’m delighted to see a local company like Casey being awarded this contract and can’t wait for the transformation to begin. And even better, there will be a number of opportunities for residents to get involved and get hands on with this fantastic project.”
Graham Lang, operations director at the Casey Group, said: “There’s nothing better than securing a project in your own back yard. Casey love working with our communities, bringing valued spaces and places back into full public use. Green spaces such as Broadfield Slopes undergo so many evolutionary changes and we are privileged to be part of this next chapter.
“Casey’s HQ is under three miles away, so this scheme is particularly significant for our 250 strong team. We look forward to working with the council and their stakeholders, to deliver a high quality, community asset for the people of Rochdale.”
Helen Featherstone, director of England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said it was fantastic news that the restoration of Broadfield Park Slopes had reached a key milestone.
“We are excited to see the continuation of the heritage-led regeneration of Rochdale, following the revamp of the magnificent town hall, which opened last year. Thanks to National Lottery players, more of the town’s medieval story will be uncovered and this project will ensure that the slopes can be enjoyed by local people and visitors from further afield for years to come,” she said.
Work on site is set to begin in March and is scheduled to complete in Autumn this year. The project is being delivered by RDA on behalf of Rochdale Borough Council.
