Rochdale is celebrating a blooming brilliant victory after striking gold at this year’s Britain in Bloom awards and being crowned the overall winner of the Town Centres and City Centres category.
Rochdale was placed ahead of Floral Godalming (Southeast), Shaftesbury in Bloom (South) and Sidcup Partners Limited (London).
Rochdale in Bloom has a proud competition record, securing gold in 2018, being named Best Small City in 2022 and winning gold again for Rochdale town centre in 2024. This year’s category win keeps the title in the borough after Middleton town centre took the top prize last year.
Rochdale has undergone significant regeneration in recent years. The Grade I-listed Rochdale Town Hall has been expertly restored, complemented by the creation of the new Town Hall Square and the transformation of the Broadfield Park slopes. Supported by a multi-million-pound National Lottery Heritage Fund grant, have made this historic quarter the envy of many.
Judges praised Rochdale town centre’s vibrant displays from Bowlee Garden Nursery, recycling initiatives and exceptional cleanliness, as well as the pride, teamwork and dedication of everyone involved. They also recognised the commitment to local biodiversity and strong partnerships, with Rochdale exceeding the gold standard in horticulture, environmental responsibility and community participation.
Rochdale’s historic Baillie Street Quarter and striking murals, created through the 2025 Rochdale Common Walls Festival, strengthened the town centre’s entry by showcasing its culture and civic pride.
Councillor Tricia Ayrton, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate change and environment at Rochdale Borough Council, said:
“What another outstanding achievement for our borough. Last year, Middleton town centre achieved gold and was overall category winner and now Rochdale town centre is back as a worthy winner once again championing our borough for 2026.
“This gold belongs to every volunteer, business, Rochdale Town Centre BID, Rochdale Riverside and the council’s environmental management team whose hard work keeps our public spaces looking their best. It’s a celebration of far more than flowers – it’s about pride in our town and brilliant working partnerships. Together, we’ve shown the country what Rochdale can achieve and hosting the national awards in the Northwest for the first time, at our magnificent Rochdale Town Hall, made this triumph even more special.”
Teresa Potter, RHS Britain in Bloom judge, commented:
“Huge congratulations to you all, a well-deserved success. You were in a good category with excellent entries. Richard and I had the best week of judging this year. Wishing you and your fellow entrants the very best for the coming bloom year. This one has been a joy once again.”