Bolton gateway site secured

NATIONAL multi-sector property developer Godwin Developments, working with Public Sector Plc, has today announced the acquisition of a prominently located 1.3-acre vacant site in Bolton.

Situated in close proximity to the town centre, at the junction of Lower Bridgeman Street and Manchester Road, the site is part of the Trinity Quarter Intervention area, and benefits from a range of new transport, cultural, amenity and community facilities.

It is within walking distance of the University of Bolton, one of the fastest growing higher education establishments in the UK, as well as Bolton’s Community and Sixth Form Colleges.

From its gateway location – a mere 200 metres from Bolton Train Station – the site is within a 15-minute commute of Manchester and offers easy access to the regional and national road networks via the A666 St Peters Way.

News of the acquisition comes after Godwin Developments recently announced residentially led schemes of over 2,000 units across investment hotspots such as Nottingham, Sheffield, Stafford, Milton Keynes, Derby and Doncaster.

Stuart Pratt, group development director for Godwin Developments said: “We are really excited to have secured this prime site in central Bolton. The Bolton Masterplan presents impressive opportunities for investment and property development in this fast-growing Northern town, which is set to attract over £1 billion in public and private investment while creating 7,400 jobs.

“Our aim is to work closely with all local stakeholders, particularly Bolton Council and the wider community, to deliver a scheme that will enhance and support the considerable regeneration planned for this area, while also strengthening our growing footprint in the North of England.

“I am particularly grateful to Public Sector Plc, land agents Lamb & Swift and legal advisers Squire Patton Boggs for their outstanding advice and support with this acquisition.”

The land is being acquired through PSP Bolton LLP, which is an innovative public and private partnership between Bolton Council and Public Sector Plc (PSP).

Councillor David Greenhalgh, Leader of Bolton Council, said: “This sale shows strong continued confidence and interest from developers in Bolton proving it is still a great place to invest.

“It is reassuring to see acquisitions and private developments continuing in Bolton despite the COVID-19 climate.

“It is fantastic that there will be a new scheme coming forward to assist in transforming the heart of the town centre. The council remains committed to supporting and collaborating with businesses, developers and investors to make Bolton town centre a great place to live, work, shop and visit.”

Nick Swift, development director and owner of Lamb & Swift, agents for the sale, commented: “The sale process of this site attracted significant interest from a number of different developers and purchasers.

“Godwin Developments were chosen as preferred bidder and have been refreshingly consistent and clear in their offer and vision for the site. It is in an excellent location close to Bolton’s New Transport Hub and the A666 road network and the scheme will dovetail exceptionally well into the Town Centre regeneration plan.

“Negotiations for the legal contract were conducted throughout the lockdown period, which demonstrated great commitment from both Public Sector Plc and Godwin Developments to get the deal over the line.”

Leena Gillespie, Development Manager, Public Sector Plc said: “We have successfully been able to bring this site to market and sell it through our long-term partnership with Bolton Council. Lamb & Swift were able to help us find a purchaser with aspirations for the site to match those of our council partner.

“The development will see further regeneration of the town centre and deliver an important gateway scheme. It’s been a pleasure to work with our legal advisors Anthony Collins Solicitors and Godwin Developments, who have progressed the purchase in a very efficient manner.

“At Public Sector Plc we are keen to deliver socio-economic benefits to local communities through our long-term relationships with our council partners – this development will lead to regeneration of the area as well as increased jobs for the local community and help the local economy.”