Transformative campus scheme gets the green light

Willmott Dixon has been appointed by the Department for Education (DfE) to deliver the £39 million block replacement at Hopwood Hall College’s Rochdale campus.

The transformative project, procured via the DfE Construction Framework, will see the demolition of existing college buildings and their replacement with a state-of-the-art four-storey educational facility offering 6,967m².

The new building will incorporate cutting-edge sustainable technologies including photovoltaics, air source heat pumps, and a hybrid ventilation strategy to harness renewable energy.

Work is expected to commence imminently, with the new facility scheduled for completion towards the end of 2028.

Julia Heap OBE, Principal and CEO at Hopwood Hall College, said: “We’re thrilled to be working alongside Willmott Dixon as we develop a brand-new block at our Rochdale Campus.

“This building will be a hub for learners of all ages, ensuring they’re able to thrive through expert training delivered in the heart of Rochdale.”

Michael Poole-Sutherland, Operations Director at Willmott Dixon in the North West, added: “We’re delighted to be working on this significant investment in further education infrastructure for Greater Manchester. This project represents everything we stand for – delivering brilliant buildings that transform lives and strengthen communities.”