The Rochdale Carpet

Industry and craftsmanship

Rochdale’s industrial strength is shown through symbols from its coat of arms. This imagery is on show throughout the Town Hall. The tools highlight the architect, workers and painters who created the building and its decoration.

World Connections

The Town Hall’s decoration showcases Rochdale’s view of itself in the arena of global commerce. The town’s trade in raw materials and textiles created a fertile environment for immigration and the movement of people.

A Great Hall

The Great Hall celebrates kings and queens through the ages but is also a place for the people of Rochdale. The design symbolises the memories people have of the Great Hall and shows off its unique features.

A working Town Hall

The Town Hall was a place of work. Elements of the design highlight its different roles as Library, Police Station, Fire Station and offices for civic workers like the Town Clerk. The fire bobbie is bravely putting out the clocktower fire.

The future

Inspired by imagery in the Mayor’s Parlour, the design represents the ideals of a greener future, one that continues to drive Rochdale ideals showcased in the Town Hall’s original décor of a people who are forward-thinking and working together.