Willmott Dixon to Lead £39 Million Redevelopment of Hopwood Hall College in Rochdale
Willmott Dixon has been selected by the Department for Education to undertake a significant redevelopment project at Hopwood Hall College’s Rochdale campus, valued at £39 million. This initiative, procured through the DfE Construction Framework, will involve the demolition of 70,000 sq ft of existing structures, paving the way for a modern four-storey educational facility that will cover 75,000 sq ft on the St Marys Gate campus.
The new building aims to enhance the educational offerings at Hopwood Hall College by introducing Higher Education provisions in Rochdale for the first time, alongside existing Further Education options. It will feature advanced sustainable technologies, including photovoltaics, air source heat pumps, and a hybrid ventilation system designed to harness renewable energy and reduce on-site energy consumption.
Construction is set to begin shortly, with the completion of the new facility anticipated by the end of 2028.
Michael Poole-Sutherland, Operations Director at Willmott Dixon in the North West, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We’re delighted to be working with the Department for Education and Hopwood Hall College 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.” He added, “We have been supporting and creating opportunities for Hopwood Hall College students for the past five years and we’re thrilled to continue to work together to create a lasting legacy in Rochdale.”
Julia Heap OBE, Principal and CEO at Hopwood Hall College, commented on the partnership, saying, “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. Willmott Dixon is a great partner for this project and it’s brilliant to work alongside a team who share our passion for transforming lives.” She also highlighted the importance of their collaboration in providing T Level placements for students.
Currently, Willmott Dixon is supporting four Hopwood Hall College students on T-Level industry placements. The redevelopment will further the company’s commitment to T-Levels, alongside creating 15 apprenticeships and 20 work placement opportunities. Willmott Dixon will implement its ‘Building Lives Academy’, a tailored employability and skills programme aimed at learners from the college’s Advanced Technology and Construction Centre, which will include site visits, mock interviews, work placements, and mentoring.
In partnership with local supply chain partners, Willmott Dixon will also focus on generating employment opportunities for Rochdale residents facing barriers to employment.
Since its establishment in 1947, Hopwood Hall College has been a cornerstone of education in Rochdale and Middleton, providing academic, vocational, and technical programmes that prepare both young people and adult learners for successful careers. This redevelopment adds to Willmott Dixon’s expanding portfolio of educational projects delivered in conjunction with the DfE, which includes the net-zero carbon in operation (NZCiO) Tarleton Academy in Preston and the recently completed Brian Clarke Academy in Oldham. The company is also actively engaged in the redevelopment of Wigan and Leigh College’s campus, which is also set to achieve NZCiO status.
