Local News from Wednesday, December 17th, 2025

Julie Murphy named interim chief as councillors question 'five-week delay'

Julie Murphy’s appointment as interim chief executive of Rochdale Council has sparked internal questioning within the Rochdale Labour Group raising concerns over a reported five-week delay in escalating serious allegations linked to her department.
Blocks of flats to be built at former care home site

Blocks of flats to be built at former care home site
Nod to area’s past as new 90-home ‘brownfield’ estate launches show homes

A new 90-home estate on a former school site is to be named Scholar’s Park.
Heywood town centre scheme presented to government

A revitalised town square, civic centre and newly improved shopfronts are all in store for Heywood, once a multi-million-pound scheme gets the green light. The Rochdalian town is on its way to receiving a £20m boost, with the Pride in Place plan now submitted to the government by the Heywood Town Board.
Julie Murphy on the line up as interim chief executive at Rochdale Council

Documents seen by Roch Valley Radio confirm that Rochdale Council will be asked to approve Julie Murphy’s appointment as interim chief executive, following the suspension of James Binks.