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.


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)