Big Dig 2 unearths fascinating finds

The foundations of a Victorian corn mill and a public weighing station are among the treasures which have been unearthed at a major archaeological dig behind Rochdale Town Hall.

More than 450 Volunteers, trainees and residents from across the borough have joined archaeologists from the University of Salford as part of the Big Dig 2, which is currently taking place on the Broadfield Slopes. 

The Slopes and the surrounding area played a key role in the development of Rochdale town centre, and the team have already discovered the foundations of the ‘Charles Kershaw Central Corn Mill’, thought to date from the mid 1800s, alongside a public weighing station.

Dr Colin Elder, from the University of Salford, said: “This site would have been a hive of activity in the industrial period, with people who would have worked in the corn mill living in houses, now long gone, which lined the steps which run up the Slopes to St Chad’s Church.

“We’ve also found part of a public weighing station, where people, including merchants, would have gone to check whether they had been sold the right amount of cotton, wool or, in this case, probably corn.”

The Big Dig 2, follows a similar dig, the Big Dig, which took place in Town Hall Square in 2021.

Central to the success of the project has been the army of residents, from young to old, the volunteers and the trainees, who have been on site each day, helping to uncover their borough’s proud history.

The dig has supported the training of five local people, as part of a ten week archaeology course, which will enable them to potentially embark on a career in the field. This talented team has already picked up sufficient skills to enable them to essentially manage the Big Dig themselves, with support from the University of Salford.

The event is also part of a number of public activities which have been put on as part of the wider redevelopment of Rochdale Town Hall, which is due to reopen soon, following a multi-million pound restoration project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the council.

Councillor Janet Emsley, cabinet member for equity, safety and reform at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “This dig has been another example of the wonderful community spirit which has characterised the project to redevelop Rochdale Town Hall as a whole, with so many participants and volunteers getting stuck in. So many people, from all age groups, have shown a passion for uncovering the history of their town, and I myself have enjoyed digging up the past with my grandchildren, who were thrilled by the experience.”

Lauren Davies, one of the trainees, said: “Working together with the others has been amazing. What a privilege to be able to engage with people who share the same interests as you every day.”

Although the Big Dig 2 is now booked up, people can still attend if they choose to, as there is sometimes last minute availability on the day. There are two digs running each day up to and including this Saturday (5 August). The first session each day will run from 9.30am to 12noon and the second session of the day runs from 1pm to 3.30pm. The site entrance is in Packer Street, close to the Flying Horse.

In the longer term, the Slopes will be redeveloped, with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Proposals for the slopes include the restoration and repair of the grade II listed Packer Spout fountain and the installation of new lighting and landscaping.