New chapter as £1million Balderstone Library extension set to open

The £1million extension to Balderstone Library in Rochdale is soon set to open providing a range of vibrant new facilities for the local community.

Built by Rochdale Borough Council, the local Kirkholt Million group will be the first to occupy this exciting new space, at the popular Balderstone Park off Platting Lane.

Dubbed the Million Pavilion, the innovative project provides new changing facilities for local sports clubs, a new community room and a café. New sports pitches, for rugby and football with accessible changing facilities for match day officials also form part of the ambitious plans.

The investment was secured through section 106 planning money, taken from local developments on Ginnell Farm, Dean Farm and the former Balderstone School.

Local councillors Phil Massey and Daniel Meredith, working closely with Kirkholt Million, led the way in securing the cash boost after consulting with the local community on their priorities for the project.

Councillor Massey said: “This is a really exciting, innovative project which has involved the whole community working together. It’s another step forward in our exciting regeneration plans for the area. I’m thrilled that we have been able to provide a base for Kirkholt Million as their ten year project starts to think about its legacy.

“I am delighted the hard work of so many people has paid off and I am looking forward to the keys being handed over and this vibrant community facility opening its doors. It underlines the community spirit of this area, with people pulling together to achieve the goal. Youth services, sports provision, community activities, skills training and more, will provide new opportunities on the doorstep of so many local residents."

Councillor Meredith said: “I am delighted to see this pioneering project nearing completion. This will be a really dynamic hub, providing opportunities for people of all ages to play sport, improve their wellbeing and come together for social events."

He added: “I would like to thank everyone for playing their part, there is so much we have achieved working cooperatively together and there are more exciting projects in the pipeline, with a special thanks to Kirkholt Million who are a brilliant, dynamic and well run community group. The late Councillor Farnell had the original vision for this extension to the library, and I’m proud that Phil and I, working with the council have been able to see it through to completion.”

Linda Mills, chair of Kirkholt Million, said: “This is another exciting step forward in our ambitious plans for the community. So much has been achieved and there is still much more to do. We are seeing our vision coming into place and the library extension is another exciting step forward.

Linda added: “This will benefit residents of all ages and, combined with a wonderful library facility, we have a really vibrant community hub to look forward to. Many thanks to the council for their help and support, working as one, to drive this project forward.”

 The Kirkholt Million team can be contacted on 07847 202407