Born to perform: regeneration puts Bolton centre stage

From the stages of its famous theatres to international business success, Bolton has always been born to perform, writes Jon Dyson, director of place at Bolton Council.

Now, the spotlight is turning to the borough’s ongoing regeneration – a bold transformation, driven by a six-location masterplan and backed by significant private sector investment.

Covering key sites like Church Wharf and Crompton Place, the plan is delivering modern housing, state-of-the-art workplaces, revitalised retail and leisure opportunities, green spaces, and improved connectivity.

Crompton Place is set to become the focal point of a reimagined Bolton town centre. Credit: Bolton Council

Regeneration gathered pace in 2024 with the successful completion of several landmark projects. Upgraded community amenities were delivered including at Bolton Central Library, the award-winning Elizabeth Park, and the new Bolton Market Food Hall.

Business and innovation continued to flourish, with flexible office space at the Wellsprings Innovation Centre, and the £40m Bolton Institute of Medical Sciences opening its doors.

2025 promises two transformative flagship projects: Church Wharf and the redevelopment of Crompton Place.

Church Wharf, a prime riverside site near the Parish Church, is set to become a key gateway to Bolton’s revitalised town centre. Local developer Watson Homes plans to build 417 homes and a 120-bed hotel at the site, complementing existing developments like Moor Lane and Deansgate Gardens, which are part of a vision to bring 5,000 new residents to the town centre.

Backed by Bolton Council’s regeneration masterplan and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Brownfield Housing Fund, the site has undergone significant work to get it ready for development, including property acquisitions and demolition. Watson Homes aims to begin work in 2025, with completion by 2027/28, transforming the area into a vibrant, sustainable community.

Meanwhile the ambitious redevelopment of Crompton Place Shopping Centre has taken a significant step forward with the support of the council and leading real estate advisor CBRE. This redevelopment is set to become the focal point of a reimagined town centre and pave the way for open public spaces and seamless connections between Victoria Square and Bradshawgate.

The council’s strategic acquisition and plans to consolidate Bolton’s retail offering around the nearby Market Place Shopping Centre highlight the borough’s commitment to growth. With a mix of independent shops and major UK retailers, Bolton is creating a dynamic shopping and cultural destination. As the redevelopment progresses, residential, leisure, and commercial spaces will emerge alongside public spaces with enhanced connectivity.

With areas like Market Place Shopping Centre, Bolton aims to be a dynamic retail destination. Credit: Bolton Council

Regeneration goes far beyond just new buildings and major investment; it also means creating vibrant communities and building a sense of pride in where people live.

The borough has launched a striking new place brand to promote Bolton to a national and international audience. Re-affirming that Bolton is “Born to Perform”, the brand highlights the unrivalled connectivity, major businesses success, and outstanding cultural offer that make the borough the ideal place to live, work, study, visit, and invest.

Bolton’s regeneration masterplan marks a bold step towards securing a prosperous future for the town and its residents. With thousands of new homes, enhanced transport links, and dynamic leisure and retail offerings, this transformation will elevate Bolton’s appeal. As flagship projects like Church Wharf and Crompton Place come to life, they will stand as symbols of a town embracing growth opportunities, innovation, and a brighter future for all.

To find out more about Bolton’s journey to regeneration, meet the team at MIPIM 2025.

• Jon Dyson is director of place at Bolton Council