Plans to convert two vacant ground floor units at Halliwell Mills, a Victorian mill on Rossini Street in Bolton, into a 350-capacity events space have been approved by the council's planning committee. The applicant, Shabbir Amka, stated that the venue is designed to host conferences, exhibitions, and local community gatherings, with a maximum operational capacity of 350 attendees.
Objections and Conditions
Councillors heard that 60 objections and a petition of 70 signatures opposing the plans were received, primarily raising concerns about noise, including from fireworks, and parking. To address these, conditions were imposed banning fireworks and outdoor drumming at the site. The committee also noted that 175 car parking spaces are available, and the transport approach was accepted by the council's highway engineers.
Heritage and Design
Halliwell Mills is classified as a non-designated heritage asset. A planning report detailed that the development includes a new frontage, canopy, and access ramps. The internal configuration is tailored to community needs, with a dedicated prayer room, formal washing facilities, a lounge area, and a specialized kitchen for high-volume catering. The car parking area will be stewarded specifically for venue use during events.
Parking comprises 96 formal bays and 79 informal managed spaces. The proposed hours of operation are Monday to Thursday 6pm-11pm, Friday 6pm-midnight, Saturday 11am-midnight, and Sunday and bank holidays 11am-11pm.
Noise Management
A planning statement from the applicant regarding noise concerns said: "In accordance with the submitted noise management scheme, the venue will be subject to strict operational controls. This includes a total prohibition on external drumming and the use of outdoor pyrotechnics or fireworks. Furthermore, all windows and doors will remain closed during events to ensure no noise breakout at the site boundary." The committee voted to approve the plans.
