A striking new mural has transformed the exterior of Rochdale Borough Libraries’ Balderstone branch, creating a vibrant community garden space for visitors of all ages.
A four day artistic effort by local muralist Jamie Buckley has given the Balderstone Library a bold new look. The colourful design is now the centrepiece of an outdoor area developed in collaboration with Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority's Age Friendly Project, both of which funded the mural as part of a wider initiative to support community wellbeing.
The mural adds a splash of colour to the exterior walls and provides a serene backdrop for reading, contemplation and gardening. Local residents have praised the transformation, which has already attracted more footfall to the site.
The outdoor space now serves as the heart of the library’s garden club, a community initiative that encourages members to grow plants, maintain the area and connect with others. The project aims to support mental health and reduce isolation by encouraging outdoor activity and social interaction.
The library service described the mural and garden project as an example of how libraries are evolving beyond books, offering inclusive spaces that support wellbeing and creativity.
Residents can visit the mural and the community garden at Balderstone Library during opening hours. More information is available at https://www.rochdale.gov.uk/libraries
Conservatives select Emma Lee as candidate for Tottington by election
Bowlee car boot sale returns for the 2026 season
Inside the major refurbishment transforming Tenpin Rochdale
Former Middleton pub could reopen as convenience store after closure
Councillors raise concern over Riverside Housing sale of social homes in Middleton
Heywood community raises £1799.65 as Donna Dolan shaves hair for Macmillan
Road closure in Ramsbottom
Rochdale families urged to shape national consultation on keeping children safe online
Civil war erupts as Labour activists in Gorton and Denton say party is ‘not willing to change’
Silver Street offices approved as temporary housing
All the major projects Rochdale can expect from capital funding
Emergency services respond after people report illness at Bury premises

Comments
Add a comment