Andy Burnham's £50 million regeneration of a Bolton high street has been dismissed as 'unsuccessful from the get-go' by a local resident. Farnworth Green in Bolton was intended to be a flagship development for the town in Greater Manchester, featuring new homes to revitalise the local economy. The project was backed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and built by property developer Capital&Centric.
Empty shops and vape stores
According to reports, new shop premises at the regenerated site remain empty, while a discount store and vape shops continue trading from premises across the road that were not part of the redevelopment. The development includes about 100 flats and 20,000 sq ft for shops and restaurants around a square, which shows little signs of life.
University worker Leslie Williams, 63, told The Telegraph: 'It's been unsuccessful from the get-go.' She argued the buildings do not fit in with the area, describing it as a working-class town with a mining history and 'people don't want posh'. A market was previously based at the site before redevelopment, with traders moved on. Williams noted there were plans for an artisan market, but locals prefer bargains over paying £3.50 for a coffee.
Developer defends selectivity
Capital&Centric's co-founder defended being selective about which retailers are allowed on the site, stating it would be better for Farnworth Green in the long term. The developer says this approach ensures quality and sustainability for the retail mix.
Political context
Towns such as Bolton have come under scrutiny since Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, propelling him closer to Downing Street. The man widely considered to become the next prime minister is expected to take his vision for Greater Manchester, dubbed 'Manchesterism', into No. 10. This approach seeks to harness private and public money to invest in transport, housing, and infrastructure.
While Burnham has won praise for revitalising Manchester, Farnworth Green suggests not every town in the region has benefited equally. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority said the development has attracted hundreds of people and all homes are let in full. A spokesperson emphasised that high street regeneration requires patience and such investments help town centres in Greater Manchester adapt and create 'thriving' communities.
