Rochdale Town Hall has been named Heritage Project of the Year at the prestigious RICS UK Awards Grand Final, beating high-profile contenders including the Elizabeth Tower in Westminster and the V&A Museum.
The town hall triumphed at a black-tie ceremony in London’s Hilton Park Lane last night, Thursday 16 October, where judges praised the restoration as a “meticulous” and “sympathetic” example of heritage conservation.
Described as one of Britain’s most important 19th century buildings, the Grade I listed Victorian Gothic landmark was transformed from a deteriorating civic building into a revitalised community hub, with previously inaccessible areas now open to the public.
The overhaul was delivered on time and within budget, and has already generated over 3,600 opportunities in volunteering, training, and employment. A new heritage skills studio has also been created as part of the legacy.
The project’s impact extends beyond the walls of the building. A former carpark outside has been reimagined as a multi-functional civic space designed to welcome all members of the community.
Judges from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) hailed the scheme’s attention to detail and modern accessibility features. “This exemplar restoration project is pivotal to the heritage regeneration of the whole borough,” the panel said. “It has ensured that this important 19th century building has its future secured and is now a place of pride for the Rochdale community.”
The competition was fierce, with Rochdale Town Hall shortlisted alongside the V&A’s Madejski Courtyard, Edinburgh Futures Institute, and the Elizabeth Tower, more widely known as Big Ben.
National Chair of the RICS UK Awards, Kerry Gibbs, said all finalists played an “integral role” in their communities. “To meet the teams behind these projects and see their passion is a heartwarming experience,” she added.
The RICS UK Awards celebrate achievements across construction, land, real estate and infrastructure. Other winners on the night included the Natural History Museum (Environmental Impact Award), Thames Tideway Tunnel (Infrastructure Award), and the Stephenson Building at Newcastle University (Project of the Year).
Council leaders say the town hall’s success could help attract further investment and tourism to the area.
Rochdale Town Hall has won Heritage Project of the Year at the UK’s top construction awards, beating Big Ben and the V&A in a landmark win for the borough.
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