Contractor appointed for Rochdale sustainable innovation hub

Glencar has been appointed by Wilson Bowden to deliver the new Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre (SMMC) at Plot R2, Kingsway Business Park in Rochdale.

The 13,258m² project will deliver a cutting-edge environment designed to support collaboration, research, and development across sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing.

The SMMC will feature a mix of spaces tailored to support flexible working and innovation. The ground floor will house a large open workshop, an adaptable space for light industrial or office use, a café, and a lecture theatre.

The upper level will offer a suite of offices, meeting rooms, and breakout areas, creating a multi-functional hub that encourages interaction between disciplines.

External works form a key part of the development, with an ancillary service yard, landscaping, and car parking incorporated into the design.

Tom Kearsley, North Regional Director at Glencar, said: “We’re proud to be working once again with Wilson Bowden and the wider team to deliver this unique and forward-looking facility.

“The SMMC will bring together different disciplines under one roof and support future-facing innovation in the region. We’re excited to bring our experience and collaborative approach to this important scheme.”

Henry Henson, Development Manager at Wilson Bowden Developments, said: “It’s a momentous occasion to finally see construction activity commence on-site for this exciting flagship project. The SMMC will form an important part of the continued success story at Kingsway Business Park and we look forward to bringing this vision to life.”

The SMMC is due to be complete by September 2026.