There are three ‘big moves’ that are proposed within the masterplan:
PLACE LED - The masterplan proposals seek to create authentic places for people, community interaction, activity and events that knit new and established neighbourhoods together through high quality physical and psychological connections.
The masterplan reveals and celebrates the station area’s heritage assets and provides the established local businesses are provided with continuity. The experience of arrival is key to the masterplan proposal and the station gateway delivers a distinct and unique identity through the creation of an accessible ‘urban forest’ at station platform level and new ‘gateway’ public realm to the north and south.
STREETS FOR ALL The Streets for All methodology is aimed at delivering a balance between
modes within the street network. Walking and cycling are prioritised and encouraged, and the space available to them is increased to provide a more comfortable environment. Walking and cycling promote vitality and increase local spend through a ‘sticky streets’ approach.
Conflict between modes has been minimised at key points across the masterplan; for example, removal of private vehicles and buses. The southern entrance to Rochdale Station is recognised and significantly enhanced to improve user experience, safety and accessibility.
MIXED USE TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT - The masterplan provides the framework for a high-quality, high density residential led development centred on Rochdale rail station and Metrolink. This is complimented by a mix of land uses to create a flexible and resilient community that support and drive the economic growth of Rochdale. This includes community infrastructure; a variety of residential accommodation; retail units; workplaces; and, consideration of car parking needs.
A new public multi-storey carpark is proposed to take capacity from existing surface parking and allowing rationalisation of on-street parking, plus an expanded Park + Ride facility to the south to the station, combined with new private vehicle and taxi drop off/ pick up location. The project included liaison with public transport authority and operators to discuss opportunities for changes to existing and proposed bus routes and bus stops, including access under low railway bridges.