Bolton Council's planning committee is set to decide this week on a £5.9 million plan to restore and repurpose Rock Hall in Moses Gate Park. The Grade II listed building would become a cultural and community venue featuring a cafe, exhibition spaces, event areas, workshops, and offices.
Project Details and Funding
The proposal includes constructing a new four-storey rear extension with a roof terrace and basement, more than doubling the building's current volume. The project is a partnership between the council and Lancashire Wildlife Trust, which would operate the site on a 25-year lease. The total cost is estimated at £5.9 million.
Funding relies on a bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for £4.5 million, covering 76 per cent of the project. The bid is time-limited and contingent on gaining planning consent.
Heritage and Community Benefits
The council states the project would secure the long-term viable reuse of Rock Hall, restore the asset, improve accessibility, and provide community and environmental benefits. Plans include demolishing an existing two-storey rear extension, restoring the front door and timber sash windows, and installing a heat pump system.
To address heritage concerns, the height of the fourth storey has been reduced to minimise its impact on views of the principal elevation from the west.
Historical Significance
A planning report notes: “The building originally stood just south of the Farnworth Paper Mill, demolished in 1971, which was owned by the Crompton family, who were key figures in the development of industry and growth in Farnworth, with involvement in both the paper and cotton industries.” More recently, it housed the Croal Valley Countryside Warden Service and Bolton’s Park Rangers until 2014, after which it became vacant.
Planning Recommendation
Planning officers have recommended approval despite a 'minor to moderate impact' on the openness of the green belt. The decision will be made at the committee meeting this week.
