Willmott Dixon has secured an £80 million contract to deliver a town centre regeneration project in Rochdale.

The Rochdale Riverside scheme will see 200,000 sq ft of retail/leisure accommodation developed in the centre of the town, featuring a six-screen cinema sitting above the retail units, with a central pedestrian street as a key feature.

Designed by architect TP Bennett, the project is being delivered by a joint venture (JV) between Genr8 and Kajima in partnership with Rochdale Borough Council. Completion is scheduled for summer 2020.

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Willmott Dixon said it will focus on using local companies whenever possible, and expects to spend over £20 million direct with companies across Greater Manchester in areas including groundwork, steelwork, roofing and cladding.

Anthony Dillon, managing director of Willmott Dixon in the North West, said: "We are delighted to have been appointed for this flagship project which will be a fantastic new addition for the town as well as a catalyst to encourage new inward investment.

"We'll also support the local economy by using businesses from the area whenever possible during the build programme; we want to leave a lasting legacy that all can be proud of."

Mike Smith, partner at Genr8 Developments, said: "We are very pleased to announce Willmott Dixon as lead contractor and look forward to seeing work commence on-site later this month."

(LM)