New store boost for conservation area
A BRAND new high-end menswear store has opened in the town centre, in a further boost to the local economy.
Phil Buckley, owner of Buckley Menswear, has styled a new base on the historic South Parade, overlooking the re-opened River Roch in the heart of the town centre conservation area.
Phil, who managed the popular men’s outfitters Denis Hope in Drake Street for 20 years, says he has invested £100,000 converting the old Edwardian bank and is looking to apply for some funding from the council as part of their small business support package.
He said: “The town centre is really moving forward.
“The market has just opened, new eating and drinking places like The Medicine Tap are really popular and I’m in a great spot right near the re-opened river and the town hall.
“This is one of the nicest properties in town and, with the new leisure and retail development opening in 2020, I feel like I’ve got in at a really good time.”
The store will stock labels including Gant, Mac jeans, Gibson London and Herbie Frogg. Phil will be offering casual wear and shoes on one floor, with suits to buy and hire, including wedding wear, on the second floor.
He is also looking at bringing a touch of Savile Row to Rochdale, with plans to set up a bespoke tailoring business from the store next year selling made-to-measure suits.
Coun Allen Brett, leader of Rochdale council, said: “It’s great to welcome yet another great business to Rochdale town centre with the help of our small business support package.
“Buckley Menswear will bring yet more life to the beautiful historic area around the re-opened river, which also boasts a brand new indoor market hall, which opened last week.
“Phil’s decision to put significant investment into this heritage property and create new jobs is a real vote of confidence in the rapidly changing Rochdale town centre and I wish him every success with his fantastic new venture.”