Heywood Civic has officially reopened following a £5.5 million refurbishment, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing regeneration of Heywood town centre. The much-loved cultural venue has been completely modernised to deliver a more flexible, accessible and high-quality community and performance space.
The redevelopment led by K2 Architects on behalf of Rochdale Borough Council and Your Trust Rochdale, has extended and reconfigured the iconic 1960s building to boost its cultural offer. Enhancements include a striking glazed entrance extension onto Peine Square, a new café and bar area, upgraded auditorium with retractable seating, and improved backstage and changing facilities to support larger shows and events.
Throughout the refurbishment, priority was given to accessibility and audience experience. The venue now benefits from enhanced lighting, sound and ventilation systems, new lifts and accessible toilets including a Changing Places facility, ensuring the space can be enjoyed by all. Local arts organisation Cartwheel Arts has also been relocated into a dedicated base within the building, strengthening community engagement and creative activity.
Sustainability has also been central to the redevelopment, and as part of an early decarbonisation strategy, the building has transitioned to a fully electric system, with all previous gas infrastructure removed. The heating and hot water systems are now powered by air source heat pumps, delivering a substantial reduction in operational carbon emissions. Energy assessments and detailed interrogation of the 3D building model demonstrate a projected carbon saving of 55% based on desktop studies. The decarbonisation of the heating and hot water systems alone results in a saving of 55.8 tonnes of CO₂ per year.
With its renewed architectural presence, enhanced environmental performance and expanded cultural capacity, Heywood Civic Centre stands as a powerful symbol of place-focused regeneration. As it prepares to welcome visitors once again, the building is set to play a central role in the town’s future, offering a dynamic space for gathering, celebration and shared experience for generations to come.
Heywood Civic Centre will enable more people than ever before to access arts and culture