BOLTON’S biggest theatre is set to play a key part in the development of the town’s new 'cultural quarter'.

The Octagon will see streets around the venue widened to allow greater accessibility, while an outdoor eating area will also be created along Howell Croft South to cater for town centre visitors, including theatregoers.

This comes a part of a wider planned transformation which if realised, will see upgrades made to the market and improve links from Le Mans Crescent, Victoria Square and Newport Street as park of a wide attempt to build a 'Covent Garden' style attraction in the town centre.

Artistic director Lotte Wakeham said: “We are thrilled the plans for the Bolton Market are going ahead which will be a great step in supporting the Bolton town centre regeneration.

“Like the Octagon, the Bolton Markets are part of the town’s identity so we are delighted the space will be getting this investment."

The plans are part of a £22.9m scheme aimed at improving Bolton town centre, with funds set to be released once plans are approved.

This will see the outdoor market refurbished, the internal halls upgraded and entrances to the building, forming the expected centrepiece of several large scale redevelopment projects.

New housing is set to be developed on the sight of the former Moor Lane Bus Station, due to begin in Spring 2022 Under the plans for the old bus station, 198 housing units will be built on the 1.519 hectare site.

The site of the former Odeon Cinema on Ashburner Street could also become a 'pocket park' as part of the scheme.

Council leaders hope that this new space will be used by town centre workers, students and visitors, and as a park for residents at the new Moor Lane housing development.

As such, the theatre could be key to bringing in and retaining visitors.

Ms Wakeham added: “The proposals are sure to be a great asset for the town and offer a vibrant and world class cultural and shopping experience, bringing lots of visitors to the town centre.

“We are proud to be leading the way in Bolton’s regeneration with the opening of our new building and cannot wait to see this next phase in the town centre development come to life.”