Glencar has been appointed by Wilson Bowden Developments to deliver the first major project at Atom Valley, with work now under way on the new Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre (SMMC) in Rochdale.

The 43,500 sq ft facility will provide a cutting-edge environment for collaboration, research and development in sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing. Designed as a flexible, innovation-focused space, the centre will bring together businesses, academics and technology partners under one roof to accelerate low-carbon solutions and next-generation production techniques.

Crucially, the SMMC is intended to act as a catalyst for a wider innovation cluster across the Atom Valley site, supporting high-value jobs, investment and long-term industrial growth in the region. The facility will form an important part of the evolving Kingsway Business Park offer, complementing existing occupiers and strengthening the area’s reputation as a hub for advanced industry.

Tom Kearsley, North Regional Director at Glencar, said the business was pleased to be working once again with Wilson Bowden and the wider project team to deliver what he described as a unique, forward-looking facility. He highlighted the opportunity to support “future-facing innovation” by creating a building that encourages collaboration between different disciplines and sectors.

Henry Henson, Development Manager at Wilson Bowden Developments, described the start of construction as a landmark moment for the scheme. He said the SMMC would play a central role in the continuing success story at Kingsway Business Park and that the project team was looking forward to turning the vision into reality on site.

The Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre is scheduled for completion in September 2026, marking an important early milestone in the development of Atom Valley as a nationally significant innovation location.

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