Thrive starts on Farnworth SME space
The developer has announced the start of the conversion of Miller House on Market Street, Farnworth into 37 office suites, to be opened in autumn this year.
Bury-headquartered Thrive specialises in providing workspaces in town centre markets, with facilities now operational in Wigan, Newton-le-Willows and Warrington, with Foundry House in Widnes set to open this year.
In Farnworth, it is making a £500,000 investment in Miller House, with the redevelopment including meeting rooms equipped with improved technology, breakout areas and an on-site gym.
Linda Thomas, leader of Bolton Council, said: “I am delighted to welcome Thrive to Farnworth and to see Miller House, which has been empty for a long time, being brought back to use. We are developing a new masterplan for the Farnworth area that will focus on both the place and its people.
“We are looking for innovative solutions from investors that will assist with regenerating the area to benefit local people. The proposals for Miller House fit with this and we hope that it will encourage others to take a similar approach.” Farnworth town centre is included in the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Town Centre Challenge programme.
Thrive managing director Matthew Settle said: “Miller House will not only offer fantastic office suites, but it will also provide modern and vibrant communal areas and facilities, enhancing the working experience and giving our tenants an impressive space to host their clients.
“We aim to grow Thrive considerably over the next six months, in addition to Miller House we have plans to open at Burnley, Blackburn, Oldham, Cheadle and Widnes as well as having operations in Blackpool, South Yorkshire and the North East in the pipeline.” The latter locations are in Sheffield and Stockton-on-Tees.
Office suites at Miller House will range from 160 sq ft for two to three people to 460 sq ft for 10 to 12 people. A show suite will be opening at Miller House later in the summer. Thrive members are able to use facilities at other locations as part of their package.