£2.9m project to transform former Littleborough school block into family hub

Cllr Rachel Massey

Photo: Rochdale Council

A former school building in Littleborough is set to be transformed into a new community facility supporting families, children and young people as part of a £2.9 million redevelopment project.

The scheme, led by Rochdale Borough Council, will refurbish the former infant block at Littleborough Community Primary School. The building became vacant when the school moved into its new purpose-built premises on the same site in 2023.

Once complete, the renovated building will become the permanent home for the town’s Best Start Family Hub, bringing a range of support services together under one roof for local families.

The upgraded facility will offer early years childcare for children aged six weeks to five years, alongside a number of rooms for health appointments such as midwife checks, health visitor sessions, hearing tests and optical checks. Large meeting rooms will also be available for community use.

Plans also include a dedicated youth zone, providing a safe space for young people to socialise and take part in activities. Facilities will include a cooking area, media room, games zone and flexible space for sports and performances.

The development will also feature a sensory room, accessible changing facilities and outdoor play areas, designed to support children with a range of needs.

The family hub has been operating temporarily from the local leisure centre since its previous building on the site was demolished to make way for the new school. The council had always intended to return the service to its original location once redevelopment plans were completed.

Councillor Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children’s services and education at Rochdale Borough Council, said the project would make it easier for families to access vital support close to home.

She said the new facility would bring services together “in the heart of the community” and create a safe environment where young people can meet friends, take part in activities and develop new skills.

Construction work is being carried out by local firm H Bell and Sons and is expected to be completed later this summer. As part of the project, the company has pledged to donate equipment for the new youth space, including games consoles, table football and table tennis.

When finished, the revamped building is expected to become a major community hub for families across Littleborough, providing services, activities and support all in one place.