Bolton "fastest-growing" centre in north-west – commercial mortgages

16 November 2006

Bolton is displaying significant "retail potential" as the centre continues to develop, according to a new study conducted on behalf of Bolton Council.

The survey, undertaken by Jones Lan La Salle, revealed that the area provided a number of opportunities for investors, including those with commercial mortgages, This Is Lancashire reports.

Commenting on the company''s findings, Ian Gray, director of Jones Lan La Salle, said that Bolton''s retail sector compares with Sheffield and Wolverhampton and that its potential for growth places it 64th out of 673 locations in the UK.

"Outside of Manchester, Bolton is the fastest-growing regional economic centre," he claimed.

"Over the next 18 months, something like ten new strategic investment opportunities are expected to become available in Bolton, which could create 2,500 new jobs."

At its recent Developers Forum, Bolton Council revealed several new development opportunities for investors, including the expansion of the town centre''s commercial area and a new cultural quarter around the university.