Digging Deep: You are invited to Unearth Rochdale’s Past and Shape Its Future

Posted by on 18 Jun 2025

For Rochdale Development Agency (RDA), it isn’t just about what’s beneath the surface, it’s about how we connect people to place.                                                       

That’s why in conjunction with Rochdale Borough Council, the RDA is inviting local residents to take part in a major archaeological dig at Broadfield Park Slopes, running from 7 to 18 July, as part of its wider regeneration and restoration programme for this historically rich area.

Delivered by RDA on behalf of Rochdale Borough Council, and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Broadfield Park Slopes project is transforming one of the town’s most iconic green spaces blending heritage, learning and inclusive placemaking to celebrate Rochdale’s past while shaping its future.

Nestled behind Rochdale Town Hall, the Slopes were once a vital hub of early industrial life. A natural spring which still feeds the Packer Spout Fountain, now being restored, supported local industry and community life for centuries. Earlier digs on the site uncovered the remains of the Charles Kershaw Central Corn Mill and a historic weighing station reflecting Rochdale’s long-standing values of fairness, equity and co-operation.

Now, working with community archaeologists Elder Archaeology CIC, the RDA is leading the next phase of excavation to uncover more of the area’s post-medieval and industrial history. And crucially, the dig has been designed to include residents of all ages, turning learning into a shared experience.

As part of the RDA’s commitment to inclusive growth and skills development, students from across the borough including Rochdale Sixth Form College, will be joining the dig, discovering not just the borough’s roots but new career paths in archaeology, history and heritage.

Councillor Danny Meredith, cabinet member for Regeneration at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Rochdale has a rich history and there’s always more to uncover. It’s so important that residents have opportunities to get involved in our projects, particularly heritage ones, because it’s their history. This dig promises to be another fantastic, free event and I’d really encourage residents to book on. They might just find something that hasn’t been touched by another person for hundreds of years and that would be an incredible feeling.”

Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the Broadfield Park Slopes project and that it is giving the communities of Rochdale the opportunity to get truly hands on with their local heritage and discover some of the fascinating stories of the history of their hometown.” 

Residents aged 5 and up (with adult supervision for under 16s) can book one of the free, twice-daily sessions. Short guided tours will also be available on select days for those interested in a less physical experience. Facilities, refreshments and a warm welcome will be available on site throughout.

The Big Dig is one of many cultural highlights in Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025–26, and a proud expression of RDA’s vision for pioneering, place led regeneration that includes everyone.

Book your place and find out more at: rochdaletownhall.co.uk/events