WORK to overhaul Farnworth and create an inclusive town centre neighbourhood is officially underway. Social mission developers Capital&Centric have kick-started construction to deliver a design-led community with homes, café bars, shops and green outdoor hangout spaces.
Consented this year by Bolton Council, Capital&Centric’s re-boot – 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.
It’s all about breathing new life into the 60s precinct site and ushering in a new chapter of town centre living, with family homes alongside spaces for an eclectic mix of independent operators. Initial demolition of the outdated shops is happening first, with construction of the new buildings following early next spring.
The major milestone rounds off a year of sustained growth for the Manchester-based developers, who’ve this year got underway on anchor town centre projects in the likes of Stockport (Weir Mill) and Stoke-on-Trent (Goods Yard).
Tim Heatley, co-founder of Capital&Centric, said:
“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.”
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Cllr Adele Warren, said:
“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 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.”
Bolton Council Leader, Cllr Martyn Cox, said:
“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.
“A number of key developments are now underway in Farnworth, and across the borough, as we deliver on our regeneration plans.”
When complete, Farnworth Green will deliver liveable town centre, with spaces that help foster the community coming together, including:
- Design-led homes: Including 85 one and two bedroom apartments as well as 12 family homes (two and three bedroom) to create a real mix of residents calling Farnworth home
- Commercial: Over 20,000 sq.ft of space for bars, cafes and independent stores
- Community hub: A groundfloor community hub, providing a space to meet-up
- A new public square: Complete with green spaces and places to relax
- Outdoor community spots: Including an events pavilion, set to support outdoor community events from art and live music to makers markets
- Greenery: Lush landscaping to introduce greenery to the town centre
- Accessibility: Pedestrian links through the community and safe cycle storage
Set for completion in 2024 construction is expected to create jobs and apprenticeships for local young people.
