Rochdale is getting a new dedicated news outlet with the launch of Rochdale Times, an independent online news website set up to give the town a new voice following the closure of Rochdale Online.
The new site is being launched by Crosby Associates Media, one of the UK’s fastest-growing independent publishers, in partnership with North Squared Media, the PR and media consultancy founded by Prolific North consulting editor Karl Holbrook, former Executive Editor of The Daily Express and Group Editor of The Northern Echo.
The move comes in response to the closure of Rochdale Online, which announced it was going into liquidation after 20 years. Its loss leaves Rochdale without a dedicated local news platform – something Nick Fellows, Managing Director of Crosby Associates Media, and Holbrook were determined to change.
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Karl Holbrook said: “Local journalism is under immense pressure, and it’s devastating to see established titles disappear. Communities like Rochdale need strong, independent voices to champion them more than ever. That’s why we’re launching Rochdale Times.”
Holbrook, who was the launch editor of Express US – part of Reach’s multi-million-pound expansion into the American news market – joked that this launch would be slightly smaller in scale. “But no less important,” he added. “If we get the right support from the people and businesses of Rochdale, this can grow into a really valuable asset for the community.”
Fellows and Holbrook have a long history of working together in local media publishing – having overseen several new titles launches together during their time at Newsquest Media Group.
Nick Fellows said: “We know from previous experience how much a town benefits from having a dedicated news service; we saw first-hand the positive reaction to the launch of The Oldham Times, following the closure of The Oldham Chronicle. Rochdale deserves the same.”
Fellows and Holbrook also launched Salford City News while at Newsquest. Their experience in building news platforms from the ground up gives them confidence that Rochdale Times can make an impact.
While the launch is small, they are calling on the community to support the platform and help it grow into a lasting voice for Rochdale.
“We’re doing this for the people of Rochdale, but we need them to get behind it,” Fellows said. “Follow us, read our stories, and if you’re a local business, consider supporting us commercially. The stronger Rochdale Times becomes, the better it can serve the community.”
With over 25 years of experience in publishing and digital marketing solutions, Warrington-based Crosby Associates Media has more than 30 established brands across the housing and building & construction sectors, working with leading trade federations, industry bodies, and Chambers of Commerce across the UK. The company recently launched Build News – a digital platform for the building and construction sectors. The launch follows a record-breaking year for Crosby Associates Media, with advertising revenues up 23% in 2024, marking its strongest performance in 27 years.
North Squared Media was launched in January this year and already works with Prolific North, where Holbrook has led audience development as Consulting Editor, as well as projects for Blackburn with Darwen Council and CWA.
Rochdale Times is actively seeking contributors, thought leaders, and businesses looking to share their expertise.
