The Bridgewater Hotel on Liverpool Road, Eccles, could be converted into a 19-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) under new plans. The pub closed in February 2025 and was sold shortly after.
Renovation plans for the former pub
The proposal, submitted to Salford Council by property manager Timorthy Witt from Leeds, seeks to change the building's use from a pub to an HMO. Plans for Mr Witt's firm, Invest Multilet & PPB Ltd, include major interior renovations.
The ground floor would become seven en-suite bedrooms and a large shared kitchen, dining, and living area. The second floor would hold 12 further bedrooms. Two additional smaller kitchen and dining areas across the two floors would 'ensure there is sufficient provision of amenity space for daily cooking, eating and relaxation as well as to encourage social interaction'.
Planning statement highlights benefits
A planning statement from letting firm Mudpiperon, submitted on Mr Witt's behalf, says the scheme 'represents an efficient use of an existing vacant building [that will] help secure ongoing investment in the building's maintenance and long-term management'.
The document adds: “The proposed HMO will provide much-needed affordable private rented accommodation for working professionals and will make a positive contribution to the diversity of the housing stock in Salford in accordance with the objectives of the development plan.”
Location and parking details
The building has no private parking, but plans include cycle storage for ten bikes. The planning statement describes the surrounding Patricroft area as a 'highly sustainable location' for public transport and shops. The property has a small private garden and is within walking distance of Winton Park and Broadoak Park.
The former Joseph Holt establishment could become the seventh HMO within a 100-metre radius, which is less than 10 per cent of surrounding buildings, according to the report. The planning document argues that HMOs serve diverse housing needs and that the development does not result in an overconcentration of HMOs or adversely affect community balance.
There are currently no objections to the proposal. The council's planning department will consider the application before making a decision.
