Culture & Placemaking
Culture and Placemaking in Rochdale
Where bold ideas shape inspiring places.
Rochdale is more than a location on the map — it’s a place alive with energy, imagination, and ambition. As we look to the future, culture and placemaking are at the heart of how we shape a borough that’s vibrant,
inclusive, and full of possibility.
From the stories that define our heritage to the creative voices breaking new ground today, Rochdale is a place where ideas thrive — and where people come together to make things happen.
Rochdale Creates
Rochdale Creates is the borough’s cultural development initiative, connecting artists, communities, businesses, and grow a thriving creative ecosystem.
We support projects, partnerships, and people that place culture at the heart of economic renewal — from grassroots activity to large-scale investment opportunities.
Our ambition is bold: to make Rochdale a recognised destination for creativity, collaboration and cultural enterprise.
Culture & Heritage
Rochdale’s cultural story is built on centuries of radical thinking, innovation, and community pride. From the Co-operative Movement to our iconic architecture, we have a legacy of shaping progress.
Today, that heritage fuels new forms of expression — music, film, visual art, performance, digital storytelling — with artists and organisations drawing inspiration from the borough’s unique character and untold stories.
From Rochdale Town Hall to hidden venues and popup spaces, our culture is rooted in real places, and reaches far beyond.
“Rochdale is a place with a rich cultural history so it is great to name it Greater Manchester’s town of culture 2025 - 2026 as it’s Town Hall and town centre enter a new era.”
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester
Fuelling Creativity Ambition in Rochdale
Rochdale is brimming with creativity and talent work — and we’re backing it with purpose.
Our Culture and Placemaking team is working with Rochdale’s Cultural Compact to build the infrastructure and momentum to support networks and our thriving creative communities. From grassroots makers to established organisations, we’re creating the space for new ideas to grow.
This is a borough where creativity is supported and diversity is celebrated. If you’re ready to create something bold, Rochdale is the place to do it.
We’re investing in:
Creative spaces where people can make, collaborate, and perform
Business support that helps creatives turn passion into sustainable practice
Events and festivals that put Rochdale talent on the map
Talent development that nurtures the next generation of cultural leaders
Inclusive access to culture across all our communities
-02.png){kind=icon}