A monumental new mural has been unveiled in Rochdale town centre, marking the largest addition to the area's public art scene. The artwork, painted on the side of the Wetherspoons pub, the former Regal Cinema, measures an impressive 10 metres in height and 32 metres in length.
Artist and Inspiration
The mural was created by Hayley Garner, also known as Aylo, an award-winning co-curator of last year's Common Walls International Mural Festival. The design was inspired by the thoughts and aspirations of over 100 children from Healey Foundation Primary School and the youth steering group for the recent FAB Youth Arts Festival. The children were asked what comes to mind when they think of Rochdale, and their ideas shaped the striking artwork.
Design and Symbolism
Hayley explained: "I had the best time working on this. It was fascinating to hear how Rochdale looks from the eyes of children. They came up with the striking design, which shows a young person studying a book about Rochdale. On one side it looks back to the town's heritage and on the other towards the present and future. There was a lot to include, but I think we managed it! The falcons, the town hall, the tram, nature, and the birthplace of the co-op is all in there, along with some hidden meanings."
Collaboration and Teamwork
Hayley, who is also director of community interest company The Butterfly Effected, was supported by fellow outdoor artists Christian Fenn (aka Seca One) and Jamie Buckley, whom she describes as her dream team. She added: "It's been such a rewarding project and an honour to be able to paint something like this in my home town."
Part of a Larger Trail
The mural now forms part of Rochdale's Common Walls Mural Trail, a walking route around the town centre that includes 24 murals. The trail was recently recognised with a national award at the prestigious Pineapple Awards in London, beating strong competition from Birmingham, York, London, and Stockport. Judges praised the project as a premier blueprint for how creative activation can strengthen a town's cultural identity.
Community Impact
Pete Courtie, head of culture and placemaking at Rochdale Development Agency, said: "This latest mural is another fabulous addition to our amazing outdoor art gallery and one of the lasting legacies from our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture. It brings real energy to a prominent local building and shows the power of public art to inspire. It celebrates the creativity of Rochdale's young people, and they should all be very proud."
The mural on the side of the Regal Moon, which originally opened as a cinema in 1938, was unveiled during the closing weekend for Rochdale's year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. It was funded by Rochdale Borough Council and JD Wetherspoon and commissioned by Rochdale Development Agency.
