Local history enthusiasts are invited to get hands on with history in a major archaeological dig taking place on the Broadfield Park Slopes next month.
The Broadfield Park Slopes, which are currently being restored and redeveloped as part of a council and lottery funded project, have a fascinating history.
The site, which sits just behind Rochdale Town Hall, is thought to be key to the early development of Rochdale. The natural spring which forms the Packer Spout Fountain created an abundant water supply which 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, taking place from 7 July 2025 to 18 July 2025, 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.
Archaeologist, Dr Colin Elder, from Elder Archaeology CIC, which is leading the dig, said:
“This area is crucial to the development of Rochdale and it would have been a hive of activity, particularly during the Industrial period. Homes, now long gone, would have lined the church steps and the people living in them would have worked in the mills in the area. Archaeology is an evolving story though; there’s always more to discover, and Rochdale residents will help us do this as part of the next big dig.”
The dig is part of wider restoration of the Broadfield Slopes, which is being funded by Rochdale Borough Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Local contractors Caseys, are already on site, delivering the project which will turn the area into a stunning new outdoor space with new landscaping, a restored Packer Spout Fountain, and much more.
Councillor Danny Meredith, cabinet member for Regeneration, said:
“Rochdale has a rich history and there’s always more to uncover. It’s so important that residents have opportunities to get involved in our projects, particularly heritage ones, because it’s their history. This dig promises to be another fantastic, free event and I’d really encourage residents to book on. They might just find something that hasn’t been touched by another person for hundreds of years and that would be an incredible feeling.”
Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:
“We’re delighted to be supporting the Broadfield Slopes project and that it is giving the communities of Rochdale the opportunity to get truly hands on with their local heritage and discover some of the fascinating stories of the history of their hometown.”
The dig will take place every day from Monday, 7 July 2025–Friday, 18 July 2025. There will be 2 sessions each day for people to choose from, one from 10am–12.30pm and another from 1.30–4pm. Anybody from 5 years old and upwards can attend, although all children must be accompanied by an adult. Tea and coffee making facilities will be available on site, alongside toilets, The event is free, but booking is essential.
In addition to the dig itself, short site tours will be available for people who are interested in finding out more, but would prefer something less physically demanding. The tours will take place on Wednesday, 9 July 2025, Saturday, 12 July 2025, Wednesday, 16 July 2025 and Friday, 18 July 2025 and also need to be booked in advance.
The Big Dig is one of a number of incredible cultural events taking place across the borough during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025–26. The title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, celebrates the borough’s rich history, creativity, talent and diverse arts scene.
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