Independent Economic Impact Assessment Confirms RDA Delivers £14.30 Return for Every £1 Invested

Posted by on 15 Apr 2026

An independent economic impact assessment has confirmed that Rochdale Development Agency (RDA) is delivering exceptional value for money, generating £14.30 in local Gross Value Added (GVA) for every £1 spent.                         

The report, produced by economic consultancy Mickledore and based on 2024/25 performance, benchmarks RDA against a range of comparable economic development and regeneration agencies across the UK. It shows that RDA’s Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) of 14.3 is significantly above the benchmark of 2, with above 4 representing Very High VfM (value for money) as outlined in the government guidelines.

Key findings from the report include:
• 765 jobs created, supported or safeguarded with RDA input
• 699 businesses supported across Rochdale
• £30.6 million in GVA generated in a single year, rising to approximately £131 million over five years
• £1.24 million in additional income generated through direct rental income, business rates and council tax for Rochdale Borough Council
• The highest level of job creation among all comparator agencies reviewed

The assessment also finds that RDA has improved its economic performance compared to five years ago, despite challenging national and global economic conditions. Rochdale’s economic outcomes compare strongly with areas that face lower levels of deprivation, highlighting the effectiveness of RDA’s place based, locally led delivery model.

Alongside its measurable economic outputs, the report recognises RDA’s strategic leadership role in major long term initiatives including Atom Valley, the Northern Gateway, the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre (SMMC), town centre regeneration, skills development, culture and placemaking. These activities generate wider qualitative benefits by strengthening confidence, improving perception and building a pipeline for future investment.

Rachel Laver, Managing Director of Rochdale Development Agency, said:
“This independent report highlights the strength of the platform the Rochdale Development Agency has built and the real impact of well designed, locally led economic development. Achieving a £14.30 return for every £1 invested reflects the quality of the team, the depth of our partnerships and a track record of long term commitment to Rochdale.

But this isn’t just about numbers. Over the past year, the borough’s growing confidence has been clearly demonstrated through Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, which showcased our creativity, ambition and sense of place on a regional and national stage, the town saw 244 events supported by the RDA, attracted over 150,000 visitors and boosted the local economy by circa £5 million.

Looking ahead, the opening of the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre in Atom Valley represents a major milestone. It will strengthen Rochdale’s role in advanced manufacturing and innovation, support higher value jobs and help future proof the local economy. 

We are also excited to play a key role in the development of Middleton and Northern Gateway through the Mayoral Development Corporations.  These regeneration initiatives, spearheaded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), will attract further investment and jobs, and play a crucial part in the future economic success of the borough.

Together, these achievements provide a powerful foundation to build on, as we continue to focus on inclusive, sustainable growth that benefits people, place and prosperity, now and for the future.”