Source: Combined Authorities (England)
Author: Manchester’s Finest
Date published: 2026-04-17
[original article can be accessed via hyperlink at the end]
An independent economic impact assessment has found that Rochdale Development Agency is generating £14.30 in local Gross Value Added (GVA) for every £1 spent, significantly exceeding national benchmarks for value for money.
The report, produced by consultancy Mickledore and based on 2024/25 performance, places the agency’s Benefit Cost Ratio at 14.3. This is well above the UK government’s benchmark of 2, with any score above 4 classified as delivering very high value.
The findings show that 765 jobs have been created, supported or safeguarded through the agency’s work, alongside support for 699 businesses across the borough. In total, £30.6 million in GVA was generated in a single year, with this figure projected to reach around £131 million over five years. The agency has also contributed £1.24 million in additional income for Rochdale Borough Council through rental income, business rates and council tax.
The report notes that Rochdale recorded the highest level of job creation among comparable agencies and has improved its economic performance over the past five years, despite wider national and global challenges. It also highlights how the borough is outperforming areas with lower levels of deprivation, pointing to the effectiveness of a locally led, place-based approach.
Alongside measurable outputs, the assessment recognises the agency’s role in shaping long-term regeneration projects including Atom Valley, the Northern Gateway and the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre, as well as wider work in town centre regeneration, skills development and cultural programming.
Rachel Laver, Managing Director of Rochdale Development Agency, said: “This independent report highlights the strength of the platform the Rochdale Development Agency has built and the real impact of well-designed, locally led economic development. Achieving a £14.30 return for every £1 invested reflects the quality of the team, the depth of our partnerships and a track record of long-term commitment to Rochdale.
“But this isn’t just about numbers. Over the past year, the borough’s growing confidence has been clearly demonstrated through Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, which showcased our creativity, ambition and sense of place on a regional and national stage, the town saw 244 events supported by the RDA, attracted over 150,000 visitors and boosted the local economy by circa £5 million.
“Looking ahead, the opening of the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre in Atom Valley represents a major milestone. It will strengthen Rochdale’s role in advanced manufacturing and innovation, support higher-value jobs and help future-proof the local economy.
“We are also excited to play a key role in the development of Middleton and Northern Gateway through the Mayoral Development Corporations. These regeneration initiatives, spearheaded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority, will attract further investment and jobs, and play a crucial part in the future economic success of the borough.
“Together, these achievements provide a powerful foundation to build on, as we continue to focus on inclusive, sustainable growth that benefits people, place and prosperity, now and for the future.”
Rochdale Development Agency delivers £14.30 return for every £1 invested, report finds