Plot R2 Rochdale

Project Overview
The Sustainable Materials Manufacturing Centre (SMMC) is a new research and development facility being delivered at Kingsway Business Park, Rochdale. The scheme will provide a highly flexible building designed to support innovation, light manufacturing, collaboration and knowledge exchange within the sustainable materials sector.

The building will comprise a large workshop and flexible ground floor space suitable for light workshop or office-based uses, alongside a social café space and lecture theatre. The upper floor will accommodate cellular offices, meeting rooms and breakout spaces, supporting both research activity and wider collaboration.

Project Requirements
The client required a highly adaptable facility capable of supporting a range of research, manufacturing and office functions. Flexibility of internal space, high-quality working environments and strong connectivity to surrounding infrastructure were key requirements, alongside provision for potential future enhancements post-completion.

Glencar’s Role
Glencar has been appointed as main contractor to deliver the design and construction of the SMMC. The appointment includes management of ground remediation, highways works, building construction, external works and delivery of a Cat A fit-out, with flexibility for future post-contract works.

Scope of Works
Groundworks & Remediation
The project includes a range of groundworks and ground remediation measures across the site, including the installation of vibro stone column (VSC) piles beneath the building footprint to address ground conditions and provide a stable platform for construction.

Section 278 & Highways Works
Section 278 works will be undertaken to provide new connections onto Michael Faraday Avenue. The scope also includes construction of a new pedestrian footpath linking Michael Faraday Avenue with the tram stop to the north of the site, improving connectivity and accessibility.

Building & External Works
Construction of the new two-storey research and development facility, including external yard areas, car parking, landscaping and associated infrastructure to support long-term operational use.

Fit-Out
The building will be delivered with a Cat A fit-out only, providing a flexible internal shell suitable for a range of occupiers and uses. There is potential for additional post-contract fit-out works to be undertaken in the future to suit specific operational requirements.

Sustainability & ESG
Sustainability has been embedded into the design approach, with the building configured to support efficient operation, flexible use and long-term adaptability. The project supports innovation in sustainable materials while delivering a modern, energy-conscious working environment aligned with the client’s wider ESG ambitions.

Technical & Delivery Challenges
The scheme includes complex ground conditions requiring targeted remediation measures, alongside live highway interfaces and the delivery of new pedestrian infrastructure. Coordinating remediation, highways works and building construction will be critical to maintaining programme certainty.

The Outcome
On completion, the Sustainable Materials Manufacturing Centre will provide a high-quality, flexible research and development facility supporting innovation, collaboration and advanced manufacturing. The project will strengthen Kingsway Business Park’s offer as a hub for knowledge-led industry and sustainable growth.