Social impact developer Capital & Centric has outlined plans to redevelop the former market precinct in Farnworth’s town centre into a £50m mixed-use scheme, which includes 200 new homes.
Bolton Council bought the King Street site from St Modwen last year. The proposals include a new public square and flexible space for community uses and events such as vintage fairs, art galleries and pop-ups.
There would also be a linear park and spaces for café-bars, delis, a mini-cinema, gym and co-working.
The developer is planning to launch a public consultation on the plans, which are being designed by architects BDP, in the new year.
It marks Capital & Centric’s first project in Bolton.
Tim Heatley, co-founder of Capital & Centric, said: “This is about rebooting and modernising the market town. By creating 200 new homes around the square, we’re bringing life, and spending power, back to the town centre, so it’ll have its own ecosystem. We’re looking to attract the region’s best artists, makers and indie operators to set up home here.”
Paul Sanders, councillor and chair of the Farnworth steering group, said: “This is real progress and what we’ve been waiting for.
“Our ambition is to rejuvenate the town centre and bring in new community facilities for our residents.”
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