Construction has begun on Rochdale’s SMMC Building

Glencar has been appointed as the Main Contractor to deliver the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre (SMMC), a flagship facility set to drive innovation, job creation, and economic growth across Greater Manchester.

Located at Kingsway Business Park near the M62, the SMMC will serve as a catalyst for advanced manufacturing, materials science, and industrial research. The centre is a key component of Atom Valley, one of Greater Manchester's six designated growth zones, spanning Rochdale, Oldham and Bury.

Atom Valley is poised to deliver 17 million sq ft of employment space and create up to 20,000 highly skilled roles in technology and manufacturing.

The SMMC will include:

• Laboratory and metrology spaces
• Workshops and design studios
• A lecture theatre and meeting rooms
• Flexible workspaces for start-ups
• Office space for manufacturers
• A café to foster collaboration and community

The development agreement has now been finalised, and Wilson Bowden Developments Limited will lead the delivery of the building. Completion is expected by summer 2026.

Henry Henson, Development Manager at Wilson Bowden Developments, commented:

"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."

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."

Daniel Meredith, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Housing and RDA Board member advised:

"The SMMC represents a major step forward for Atom Valley and Greater Manchester's industrial strategy. This development will not only attract leading innovators and manufacturers, but also generate high-value jobs and growth across the region."