The Big Dig 3.0

• Session times: there's a morning and afternoon session each day, with the following times:
  • 10am–12.30pm
  • 1.30pm–4pm
• Who is this event suitable for? For adults, teenagers and families with children aged 5 or over. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Booking required: book your place online through Eventbrite
• Directions: Get directions to this event from Google Maps – please note this site is not marked on Google Maps.
• Contact: BroadfieldParkSlopes@investinrochdale.co.uk
• Event organiser: Rochdale Development Agency

The site, which sits just behind Rochdale Town Hall, is thought to be key to the early development of Rochdale. The natural spring that forms the Packer Spout Fountain created an abundant water supply that is thought to have supported the development of industry around the site.

Earlier digs on the site have uncovered the foundations of a Victorian corn mill known as the Charles Kershaw Central Corn Mill. A weighing station has also been discovered on the site, which people would have used to weigh the corn they had bought at market to ensure they hadn’t been short changed, ensuring fairness for all, a major principle on which the worldwide cooperative movement, founded in Rochdale, was based.

It is hoped that the new dig will enable people to uncover even more of the site’s fascinating history, particularly its post medieval history, dating from the 1540s to the 1760s.

Tea and coffee making facilities will be available on site, alongside toilets.

Disclaimer

Events and activities are not organised by Rochdale Borough Council unless stated otherwise. Neither is Rochdale Borough Council responsible for the accuracy of the information provided. If you are under 18, ask your parent/guardian before taking part in any event or activity.

Related content

• Plan your visit to Rochdale Town Hall - find out where to park, important accessibility information and more.
• Events at Rochdale Town Hall
• See all events in the borough of Rochdale