BOLTON is to get £22.9million of government cash to turn its transformational town centre plans into reality.
The money to support the regeneration vision will come from the government’s £3.6bn Towns Fund.
It was one of the 45 town deals announced by the chancellor Rishi Sunak as part of his Budget.
The Cheadle Square area of the town, which includes Bolton Market, Bolton Central Library and Aquarium is now set to see major improvements thanks to the grant.
Bolton Council will also use the secured funds across four projects including an improvement to Bolton Market, which will involve refurbishing and upgrading the internal halls, and improving all entrances to the building.
The Wellsprings building will be redeveloped to create an innovation hub for growing and start-up businesses in the creative and digital sector.
And a public realm project will create a greener town centre, creating improved footpaths and connections between key institutions improved, new pocket parks and new public spaces.
The re-development of Bolton Central Library, museum and archive, will expand the aquarium, modernise the libraries and introduce flexible workspaces for businesses and community groups.
The next stage of the process will involve the council agreeing Heads of Terms with government and developing a full business case for each of the projects.
Costs are indicative and could change as plans develop. There are strict criteria on how money from the government’s Towns Fund can be spent.
It can only be used on Bolton town centre regeneration projects, and not used to offset budget savings or on other services.
Belinda Beaver, who chairs Bolton’s Town Deal board and is director at Agitare Business Consultancy, said: “I am overjoyed that Bolton’s Town Fund has been successful and the money we receive will make a great difference to our town centre.
“The success is a testimony to Bolton’s fantastic collaborative working with partners to provide upgraded facilities to businesses, residents and visitors alike.”
Council leader David Greenhalgh, said: “This money will help us realise our vision and enable us to deliver transformative projects which are a key part of our ambitious plans.”
For more information about Bolton’s Town Fund bid visit www.investinbolton.com