Stakehill BID: From Access and Security Challenges to a Stronger Business Community
Stakehill Industrial Estate had long been an important business location in Rochdale, but growing concerns around access, parking, public transport, security and the wider trading environment made it clear that businesses needed a stronger collective voice and a clear investment plan.
pfbb UK were asked to help develop the BID proposal and business plan by UBS as a result of the work pfbb UK had done in the development of the Manor Royal BID. UBS is a major landlord on Stakehill and saw the benefits to all businesses of the development of a BID on the estate. Working with businesses and local stakeholders, pfbb UK led the consultation and research to shape a BID focused on the issues that mattered most to the estate.
The key priorities identified were improving access to, from and around the estate, creating a safer and more secure environment and building a stronger business community. The research also showed clear ambition for growth, with businesses wanting Stakehill to be better placed to attract investment and support future development.
Stakehill achieved a successful ballot in 2021 and became operational from 1 July 2021. The BID was built around three main objectives and a five-year investment programme designed to improve the trading environment and give businesses a stronger voice.
It has successfully raised the profile of the estate as it now forms a vital part of the ‘Atom Valley’ strategic gateway to Manchester. Stakehill BID was instrumental in the Rochdale Development Agency securing funding from Innovate for the estate to develop a tool kit for businesses to support them in reducing carbon outputs.
Key achievements include securing regular bus services into and around the estate to enable shift workers to access the estate and ANPR coverage and parking management to create a safer environment for businesses and workers.
Stakehill BID has continued to represent businesses on the estate, and in 2025 pfbb led them to secure a successful renewal ballot for a second term from 2026 to 2031 with a strong result of 86% in favour by number and 96% in favour by value.