The redevelopment of Touchstones, the borough’s major arts and heritage venue is progressing following the appointment of construction company H.H. Smith and Sons Ltd as the main contractor. The Manchester-based firm also worked on the restoration of Rochdale Town Hall.
H.H. Smith and Sons started started work in July, which will see the building transformed into a creative and cultural hub with new flexible performance and creative studio spaces, meeting rooms and improved galleries.
The work also includes a new dining space combining the theme of food with the borough’s collections. ‘The Dining Room’ will see three artists commissioned to work with 20 community curators to produce a new museum and dining space for when it re-opens in 2025.
Vital works to improve the building’s accessibility and sustainability will also take place.
