Greater Manchester’s flagship advanced manufacturing cluster, Atom Valley, is set to accelerate delivery following new investment announced as part of the latest phase of the city-region’s Good Growth Fund.
The announcement forms part of a wider expansion of the UK-first fund, which is set to grow to almost £2 billion through a landmark partnership with the National Wealth Fund, alongside additional Government and transport investment. The funding will support a pipeline of projects designed to unlock jobs, homes, infrastructure and innovation across Greater Manchester.
As part of this next wave of investment, the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre (SMMC) in Rochdale, the first major development within the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone, will receive up to £15 million to support delivery of a nationally significant innovation facility. The centre will provide specialist space for businesses operating at the forefront of advanced materials and sustainable manufacturing, strengthening the region’s position in high-value, future-facing industries.
Spanning Rochdale, Bury and Oldham, Atom Valley represents one of the UK’s most ambitious industrial growth locations, focused on advanced manufacturing, materials and machinery. The latest investment reinforces its role as a key driver of economic growth, supporting Greater Manchester’s ambition to build globally competitive sector clusters and attract inward investment.
Atom Valley is expected to support up to 20,000 new jobs over the coming years, with a strong focus on connecting local people to new opportunities in high-value sectors. Through Greater Manchester’s new Good Growth Contract, the programme will ensure that investment delivers both economic and social value, including new apprenticeships, training pathways, opportunities for local businesses and high-quality employment.
This investment forms part of a broader programme of projects across Greater Manchester, including major transport improvements, new housing schemes, clean energy developments and cultural and sporting initiatives such as the proposed bid to host the Ryder Cup in Bolton in 2035. Together, these projects demonstrate a coordinated approach to growth that prioritises both economic impact and community benefit.
Councillor Neil Emmott, Leader of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “This investment shows that Atom Valley is moving from ambition to delivery. It is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create thousands of high quality jobs in industries that will define the future economy. By connecting our residents particularly young people, to world-class opportunities in advanced manufacturing and technology, we are ensuring they are equipped to succeed in the careers of tomorrow.”
With its scale, strategic location and integrated approach to infrastructure, innovation and skills, Atom Valley is positioned as a globally competitive destination for advanced manufacturing investment. The latest Good Growth Fund announcement reinforces Greater Manchester’s commitment to delivering long-term, inclusive growth across the city-region.
