Funeral parlour could be transformed into new homes

Monday, 9 June 2025 16:21

By George Lythgoe

Cope Funeral Service, Manchester Road, Rochdale

A funeral director’s in Rochdale could soon be transformed into a new ‘high-quality’ apartment block, complete with a gym and concierge service.

Cope Funeral Services has been a mainstay on Manchester Road for years, but now plans have been tabled to demolish the site and build 28 apartments. If approved, the new three-storey block would contain 12 one-bed and 16 two-bedroom apartments.

Proposals, tabled by Mr Andrew Cartwright, also detail gym and communal spaces for potential residents moving in.

The area is within walking distance of shops and eateries as well as being a stone’s throw from Broadfield Park. There is also a close link to the Rochdale Bypass and A627, which in turn connects to the M62 and the wider road network of Greater Manchester.

A total of 18 car parking spaces and cycle storage are included in the plans submitted to Rochdale Council.

Planning papers read: “The new apartment will respect the scale and massing of the adjacent dwellings in the surrounding area.

“The proposal seeks to create a high quality place which builds on the character of the surrounding neighbourhood.

“An architectural response that is traditional in its use of materials and built form which will enhance this section of Manchester Road and bring a highly visible site back into positive use.”