An empty listed town centre building could be brought back into use as a restaurant or café. The council’s cabinet will consider a report on the future of Number 1 on Newport Street when it meets next week on Monday, November 4. The project could see the council take back control of the building and carry out the necessary repairs to open it back up to the public.
The Grade II listed building dates back to the 1820s and was used by the Bolton Corporation as an exchange library and museum. The lease was acquired by Nationwide Building Society in 1970 and the property has been sublet to various tenants, most recently Coral bookmakers, whose branding can still be seen at the building. The building has now been empty for a number of years and an independent survey has shown that renovation work is needed on the roof, windows and interior.
Under the proposals set to go before cabinet, the current holders would be allowed end their lease early in exchange for a lump-sum payment to the council. A portion of that amount would then be used to cover the estimated cost of the renovation works, while the council identifies a suitable new tenant. Earlier this month, the council hosted the hospitality business event which saw dozens of potential investors express interest in taking on vacant properties.
The council said No 1 Newport Street’s close proximity to Victoria Square the Crompton Place redevelopment site make it an ideal location for a hospitality venue. The report recommend.
