Work to create a town centre neighbourhood in Bolton is officially underway. Developers Capital&Centric have started construction to deliver a design-led community with homes, cafés, bars, shops and green outdoor spaces. Construction is also expected to create jobs and apprenticeships for local young people.
Consented this year by Bolton Council, Capital&Centric’s reboot – named Farnworth Green – is backed in part by the Government’s Future High Street Fund, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Brownfield Housing Fund and Bolton Council’s District Centres Fund.
The aim is to redevelop the 60s precinct site and begin a new chapter of town centre living, with Build to Rent homes alongside spaces for a mix of independent operators. Initial demolition of the shops is happening first, with construction of the new buildings to follow in early spring next year. Farnworth Green is expected to complete in 2024.
“Our intention from the off was to design a really liveable town centre in Farnworth, one where new residents can forge a future and existing locals can spend quality time as a community. It’s all part of bringing quality design and finishes you usually expect from city centres into Greater Manchester’s suburban towns.
“That comes with its own challenges, least of all the current economic climate and overcoming rising costs across the board. But with our track record and the continued support from the Council, Combined Authority and Government, we’ll face the challenges head on to deliver something standout for Farnworth.”
Tim Heatley, Co-Founder, Capital&Centric
This announcement rounds off a year of sustained growth for the Manchester-based social mission developer, which has also begun work on other town centre projects including the Weir Mill Build to Rent scheme in Stockport, and the Goods Yard scheme in Stoke-on-Trent.
“Our commitment to regeneration goes beyond Bolton town centre to delivering projects in districts across the borough. We worked closely with local stakeholders to design a Farnworth masterplan that directly address the priorities of the local community.
“I’m sure everyone is as excited as we are to see work finally start on Farnworth Green, which together with other projects shows there is real momentum around local regeneration.”
Cllr Adele Warren, Executive Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Bolton Council
When complete, Farnworth Green will deliver a town centre with spaces that aim to help foster a community. This includes design-led Build to Rent homes – a mix of 85 one- and two-bedroom apartments and 12 two- and three-bedroom family homes, over 20,000 sq ft for bars, cafes and independent stores, a ground-floor community hub, a new public square, outdoor community spots (Including an events pavilion), greenery, pedestrian links and safe cycle storage.
“We want each of our town and district centres to be more vibrant and exciting places to live, work and visit. Farnworth Green is a great example of the council working with the government and a private developer to deliver a project that will have a lasting positive impact on the community and local economy.
Cllr Martyn Cox, Leader, Bolton Council
“A number of key developments are now underway in Farnworth and across the borough, as we deliver on our regeneration plans.”
