Delivering Growth in Bolton

Bolton, a historic town in Greater Manchester, is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at fostering growth and improving the quality of life for residents.

Recent developments have revitalised the town's food and drink sector, housing, and green spaces, reflecting a commitment to sustainable regeneration.

The future of Bolton is bright, by blending heritage with innovation, the council aims to create a thriving, future-proof town centre. Backed by significant private sector investment and partnerships, Bolton is being re-imagined - this ambitious vision will deliver thousands of homes, improved transport links, a diverse programme of leisure and cultural activities supported by a vibrant hospitality sector and new community spaces, ensuring Bolton’s appeal as a competitive hub for residents and businesses alike.

Bolton is beginning to be recognised as a credible location for institutional investment. The Deloitte Investor Prospectus (2023) highlights how the first phase of development is enhancing the long-term credibility of the Town Centre among institutional investors. The Greater Manchester Pension Fund has invested in two sites, paving the way for other well-established funds to invest and support Bolton’s ongoing growth. A pipeline of development over the next 5 years will continue the growth and ensure the ambitious vision for the future is matched by delivery.

Church Wharf

Plans are underway to create a vibrant new neighbourhood at Church Wharf, a riverside location near the Parish Church. The proposed development includes 414 homes and a 120-bed hotel, with construction set to start in 2025 and completion expected by early 2028. The scheme is being supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Brownfield Housing Fund. To prepare the site, Bolton Council has previously acquired several properties backing on to Bank Street and Manor Street before carrying out full demolition and enablement works.

This initiative aims to transform a previously underutilised area into an attractive residential and commercial hub at a key gateway to the town centre. The development will not only provide high-quality housing but also introduce new public spaces, ensuring that Church Wharf becomes a dynamic and appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.

Crompton Place

The redevelopment of Crompton Place Shopping Centre is a cornerstone of Bolton’s town centre regeneration strategy. The council has partnered with leading real estate advisors CBRE to oversee the transformation of this once-thriving retail hub into a modern, mixed-use development. Since acquiring the site in 2018, Bolton Council has worked closely with leaseholders to facilitate their relocation, ensuring a smooth transition towards the next phase of development whilst simultaneously consolidating the retail offer within the core town centre.

With retail trends shifting towards experiential and multi-purpose spaces, the vision for Crompton Place reflects evolving consumer habits. Following the surrender of the lease by M&S earlier this year and Primark’s move to the Market Place Shopping Centre, the stage is set for significant redevelopment.

The former M&S building has been identified as the ideal first phase in the delivery of this project. There is already interest in how the building can be converted for alternative use, with potential for the work to take place at the same time as the demolition of the main Crompton Place complex.

Demolition is due to start shortly, making way for a dynamic mix of leisure facilities, food and beverage outlets, commercial spaces, and residential units. Additionally, the redevelopment will introduce new public spaces, improving connectivity between Victoria Square and the bustling thoroughfare of Bradshawgate.

CBRE is not only advising on asset management and placemaking but is also leading the search for a developer to bring this ambitious vision to life. The project is expected to attract further private-sector investment, reinforcing Bolton’s status as an emerging hub for urban regeneration.

With work due to start in 2025, Crompton Place will serve as a catalyst for further investment, ultimately redefining the town centre experience for both businesses and residents.

Mayoral Development Corporation

Bolton’s regeneration efforts are further supported by proposals for a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC). Based on a similar model used in Stockport, the MDC would focus on driving economic growth, delivering new homes, and creating jobs within the town.

By leveraging public and private sector partnerships, the corporation could accelerate development and ensure that regeneration efforts align with the needs of the community. With a strategic approach to urban renewal, the MDC would play a crucial role in shaping Bolton’s future, ensuring that the town remains an attractive and prosperous place to live, work, visit, study and invest.

Through these comprehensive initiatives, Bolton is investing in its future, prioritising community-focused regeneration, and delivering sustainable growth for its residents. The town’s commitment to transformation, economic development, and placemaking ensures that it remains a thriving hub within Greater Manchester.

Find out more about Bolton's future at MIPIM 2025 at the Manchester stand.