‘Clear message’ sent as Bolton confirms partner for £200m Crompton Place

As first revealed by Place North West, MEPC, the developer arm of global investor Federated Hermes, will lead the transformation of four acres at the heart of the town centre – a scheme described by the council’s Leader as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to create something everyone in Bolton can be proud of”.

Best known for projects including the NOMA district in Manchester, Wellington Place in Leeds, and Paradise in Birmingham, MEPC was selected ahead of underbidder Urban Splash to deliver the £200m Crompton Place vision, which includes hundreds of homes, a hotel, offices, and leisure space.

Cllr Nick Peel, Leader of Bolton Council, said the calibre of development partner appointed is an indication of the town’s potential.

“Crompton Place lies at the heart of the ongoing regeneration of Bolton as we consolidate our retail offer and create much-needed housing, new hospitality venues and bustling public spaces,” he said.

“The appointment of such a well-known and successful developer sends a clear message to the market that the regeneration of Bolton is entering a new phase, and I am sure this will attract further inward investment for our borough.”

Paul Pavia, head of development at Federated Hermes Real Estate, said Bolton offers the chance to make manifest its place ethos.

“We believe real estate has a powerful role in responding to local needs, enhancing the connections between people, businesses and communities, whilst delivering positive economic outcomes, and Crompton Place is a clear opportunity to put that belief into action.

Pavia said the redevelopment of Crompton Place would aspire to follow in the footsteps of the man after whom it is named – Samuel Crompton, the inventor of the spinning mule.

“Just as Samuel Crompton’s innovations shaped Bolton’s past, we are excited to join forces with Bolton Council in helping shape the future of this historic town with a strong industrial heritage,” he said.

“We will collaborate closely with Bolton Council, local stakeholders and communities, and investors to bring Crompton Place into its next chapter so that it remains inclusive, relevant and successful over the long term.”

Law firm Trowers & Hamlins advised the council throughout the procurement process.

Katie Saunders, partner in projects and construction and Manchester office co-head, said: “We are very proud to have advised Bolton Council on this exciting next step in the Crompton Place regeneration, a project that will rejuvenate Bolton’s town centre and celebrate the heritage that defines Greater Manchester.

“With Crompton Place recognised as a priority scheme within the Greater Manchester Strategy and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Good Growth Fund, we are pleased to be part of a project that will deliver a new space for the community.”

Ahead of its wholesale transformation, the site of Crompton Place will be activated through a meanwhile use strategy once the former shopping centre has been pulled down next year, MEPC said.