Credit – Rochdale Development Agency
Work has officially started on the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre in Rochdale, a new facility that will support advanced manufacturing, innovation and high-skilled job creation across Greater Manchester. The centre is a major part of the Atom Valley development, which aims to transform parts of Rochdale, Oldham and Bury into a hub for new industries and technologies.
The Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre is a key element of the wider Atom Valley strategy. Atom Valley is one of six designated growth zones in Greater Manchester and is expected to deliver 17 million square feet of employment space and create up to 20,000 jobs in technology and manufacturing. The new centre will act as a focal point for research, business growth and skills development in the region.
Once complete, the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre will provide a range of facilities, including laboratories, metrology suites, workshops, design studios, flexible workspaces for start ups and office space tailored to manufacturers. It will also include lecture theatres, meeting rooms and a café to encourage collaboration and build strong networks within the business community. The project is being delivered by Wilson Bowden Developments Ltd and is scheduled to be completed in summer 2026.
Rochdale Council has highlighted the development as a significant step forward for the local economy and for Greater Manchester’s industrial strategy. Councillor Daniel Meredith, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Housing and a member of the Rochdale Development Agency board, described the centre as a major milestone for Atom Valley that will attract leading innovators and manufacturers while generating high-value jobs and long-term economic growth for the region.
The new facility will be located at Kingsway Business Park, close to the M62. This location has been chosen to make the most of excellent regional and national transport links, ensuring businesses and researchers based at the centre can connect easily with partners and markets across the country.