'Nationally important' town house on cobbled street could become one-beds flats and bedsits

Plans have been unveiled to transform a town centre listed building described as ‘of national importance’ into flats. The property, on Wood Street, Bolton, which dates back to around 1780, is currently empty, but for a long period was used as an office over three floors.

Developers hope to sub-divide the ground, first and second floors into four one-bedroom apartments and two bedsits. A design and access statement in support of the plans, said: “The demand for office premises in this area of Bolton is diminishing, and there are a number of other office buildings within the immediate vicinity of the building.

“Minimal changes are proposed to the exterior of the building, with the majority of the proposed works occurring internally. “The location is on a quiet side street within Bolton town centre, directly off of Bradshawgate with no thoroughfare to other streets in the area.

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“The building is already in need of maintenance and repair, which will no doubt deteriorate over time and attract vandals or other unwanted attention. “Private investment will offer viable use for the site, and enhance the area for years to come.”

As the building is Grade II listed, a heritage statement has also been produced in with the plans, which described the property as being ‘ a building of national importance’. The report, said: “The building dates from approximately 1780-90.

“It is listed at grade II and features as a key building within the Silverwell Street and Wood Street conservation area. “This building was built as a residential