Richard Street Studios attracts Creative Businesses to Rochdale

Posted by on 8 Oct 2024

Photo © David Hirst

Andy Hirst owner and director of Batch Films, a video company which helps SME’s and charities communicate and connect with people to win business and turn people into partners, has relocated from a key city centre co-working space to Richard Street Studios, Rochdale.

The studios are located by Rochdale train station and the Fire Up co-working space, Richard Street Studios has a range of creative workspaces tailored to the needs of Rochdale’s growing creative business community.

When asked why he made the move from Manchester’s central to hub to Rochdale, Andy said:

“To me it was a no brainer, the offices are stunning and spacious, I am part of a diverse creative network literally in my building, the space is secure and importantly for my business the internet connection is flawless. It also means that I can expand my business and through working with the RDA and Breaking Barriers I can focus on skills and talent development, I am looking to take on an apprentice and support the next generation of artists and creative entrepreneurs.

If I do need to be in Manchester, I’m literally just 12 minutes away door to door. Rochdale is changing and I would encourage any business, especially in the arts to relocate here. It’s such a great community.”

Batch films has been around since 2021 following Andy’s 20 year career. The company offers a simple and frictionless experience when creating high value content. Their key value is a belief in co-producing, making the client part of the process.

Councillor Sue Smith portfolio holder for Communities and Co-operation said: “I met Andy at the opening of Richard Street Studios and it is great to see such high quality, successful creative businesses already established in this wonderful space. I would encourage anyone who is thinking of developing their interest or desire further to get in touch with the studios, you just never know where it could take you. This is a great asset for the people in the borough of Rochdale”.