Rochdale has once again been recognised as one of the leading town centres in the Northwest, after being selected as a contender in the 2026 Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom UK Finals.
The nomination means Rochdale will compete with the best in the UK, including Floral Godalming (South East), Shaftesbury in Bloom (South), and Sidcup Partners Ltd (London) who are also nominated in the Town Centres and City Centres category.
Rochdale in Bloom has a strong record in the competition, winning Gold in 2018, being named Best Small City in 2022 and clinching another Gold for Rochdale town centre in 2024.
Rochdale has undergone significant regeneration in recent years. The Grade I listed Rochdale Town Hall has been expertly restored, complemented by the creation of the new Town Hall Square and the transformation of the Broadfield Park slopes. Supported by a multi-million-pound National Lottery Heritage Fund grant, these restorations have made this historic quarter the envy of many.
Councillor Tricia Ayrton, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate change and environment at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “What another outstanding achievement for our borough. Last year, Middleton town centre achieved gold and was overall category winner and now Rochdale town centre is back in the spotlight championing our borough for 2026.
“Being selected to compete with leading contenders throughout the UK is a recognition that results from working together to create attractive spaces—spaces that frequently earn praise from other towns and cities. Our dedicated grounds team and Bowlee Garden Nursery will work closely with Rochdale in Bloom; Rochdale Development Agency, and Rochdale Town Centre BID to ensure our town centre is ready to welcome and impress the judges this summer.”
