Bolton Secures Approval for £100 Million Church Wharf Development

The long-anticipated regeneration of a neglected area in Bolton town centre has received official approval, paving the way for a transformative £100 million development. Watson Homes will construct a new neighbourhood featuring **418 homes**, a **130-room hotel**, and commercial spaces at the Church Wharf site. This project, described as a “once in a generation opportunity,” aims to breathe new life into a long-derelict part of the town.

Nick Peel, the leader of Bolton Council, emphasized the significance of the development, which is expected to house over **1,000 residents**. He stated that the potential impact of Church Wharf cannot be underestimated. “Church Wharf is a key development site at a strategic gateway to the town centre,” Peel remarked. He expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Let’s see those boots on the ground, let’s see those spades, let’s see those cranes, because we can do it in Bolton.”

Details of the Church Wharf Project

The Church Wharf location, adjacent to the **River Croal** and **St Peter’s Way**, has remained dormant for decades. It is designated as a central priority within Bolton’s town centre masterplan. The development has received backing from the **Greater Manchester Combined Authority**, which has allocated **£5 million** from its brownfield housing fund. Earlier this year, the council provisionally agreed to sell the land for this project.

The **7.5-acre** riverside site will undergo a three-phase development, introducing a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments and houses, including a dedicated portion for affordable housing. Plans also include a public plaza named **Churchbank Square**, envisioned as a focal point for both residents and visitors.

The initiative will involve the construction of **12 new blocks** and aims to create spaces for restaurants, shops, and leisure activities. According to Watson Homes, this development will establish a vibrant new destination in the heart of Bolton.

Community Impact and Design Vision

The project received unanimous approval from Bolton’s planning committee. **Councillor David Grant** supported the housing mix, highlighting the need for options that cater to single individuals and couples who may not qualify for affordable or social housing. “This is what real regeneration looks like at what was a scar on the town. Let’s get cracking with it,” he stated.

**Councillor John McHugh** praised the design, noting its homage to Bolton’s industrial heritage, and likened it to Liverpool’s **Albert Dock**. He remarked, “It will transform derelict land into a vibrant social and economic hub. It looks phenomenal.”

**Rob Watson**, director at Watson Homes, expressed pride in moving forward with the Church Wharf project, viewing it as a significant opportunity for the Bolton community. “This development is about creating a new neighbourhood with character and purpose, where people want to live, work, and spend time,” Watson stated. He added that the project represents an investment in long-term value and positive change for the area.

Construction is set to commence in **2025**, with phased completion anticipated through to **2029**. The Church Wharf development marks a pivotal moment in Bolton’s ongoing revitalization efforts, promising to reshape the community and enhance the town’s appeal.