Bars and clubs in Rochdale’s Packer Street are reopening their doors after agreeing to temporarily close to help speed up the development of the new Town Hall Square.
The work is part of the ongoing major restoration of the world-famous Grade I-listed building.
The venues reopen on Friday, 13 January 2023 following closure for the completion of work outside their premises. Yates, Ko-Ko Lounge, The Empire and The Flying Horse Hotel are returning to normal opening times following the completion of civil engineering work.
Packer Street closed temporarily for 10 days at the beginning of the year so that vital work, including key drainage work, could be carried out as quickly as possible with the least amount of disruption.
Councillor Janet Emsley, cabinet member for equalities, safety and reform, said: “We are very grateful that all the businesses along Packer Street agreed to work with us to close temporarily so that the team could carry out this essential work to expand the new Town Hall Square up to the street.
“We saw the closure as the best way to do the work as quickly as possible for the minimum disruption. I am glad we have been able to keep to the deadline we set out so that all the bars can now reopen and continue to offer fantastic experiences in the future.”
Work on the new Town Hall Square continues apace and the council is working with the contractor to accelerate its completion. Already a large swathe has been installed and once finished will feature grassed areas, landscaping, outdoor seating and events space to enhance the cultural offer for residents and visitors.
Paul Ambrose, business improvement district (BID) manager, said: “Many thanks to the council for ensuring the works were completed within the deadline they had set out and it’s great to see part of the new Town Hall Square being revealed. The BID looks forward to seeing the square being fully revealed as this world-class public realm and event space will provide another positive step in the ongoing transformation of the town centre”
