Efforts are being made at the Stakehill Industrial Park to reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with Greater Manchester's ambition to achieve net zero by 2038. 

The Stakehill Local Industrial Decarbonisation Plan (LIDP) is one of only 12 projects funded by Innovate UK and focuses on reducing emissions and promoting sustainability across Stakehill's estate.

Led by Rochdale Development Agency, in collaboration with the Stakehill Business Improvement District (BID), SSE Energy Solutions, the Energy Innovation Agency, Rochdale Borough Council, and supported by the University of Manchester and asset owners UBS, the consortium has already accomplished key milestones. 

This includes automatic traffic count surveys, a tree planting project and energy audits.

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Alan Johnson, BID Manager for Stakehill, which sits adjacent to Oldham, said: “Progress so far includes automatic traffic count surveys in partnership with Transport for Greater Manchester, working with the City of Trees project to plan a planting schedule for 33 trees, and sharing best practice through the creation of case studies which highlight the sustainability efforts of Stakehill tenants.

“The initiative has also facilitated funded energy audits for four businesses – Elite Sign Solutions, Mount Engraving Tools Ltd, PSV Glass and Sitraben – helping them improve energy efficiency and reduce consumption.”

Looking to ensure local businesses have the latest businesses information on cost-saving strategies and collaboration opportunities, this summer has seen the consortium host an Energy Challenge event to explore low-carbon innovations.

The event also introduced attendees to Bee Net Zero, which supports Greater Manchester's goal to become the UK's leading green city-region.

Looking ahead, the consortium is planning to launch an interactive toolkit that will provide businesses with access to valuable resources, including funding opportunities, live case studies, and direct support from the BID team, which will enable more businesses to contribute to Stakehill’s decarbonisation goals.