Plans to revive an empty solicitors’ office on “one of Bolton’s most historic streets” could help bring new employment to the town.

Earlier in October plans were lodged to turn the empty building on Wood Street, just off Bradshawgate, into an 11-bedroom training centre for Diamond Buses.

Now Cllr Richard Silvester, who represents the Queens Park and Central area on the council, has said he is supporting the bid.

Cllr Silvester said: “The property is located on one of the most historic streets in Bolton town centre and within a conservation area and this property is well over 200 years old.

“This proposal would bring an empty building back into use by a national company as a training facility for its members of staff with administrative office functions also taking place and bedrooms for the drivers undertaking the courses while training at the premises, if the training courses last for several days for example.

The plans have been put before Bolton CouncilThe plans have been put before Bolton Council (Image: Paul Gaughan Building Consultants)

“This brings employment into the town centre and economic activity with those working at the premises and those staying at the premises on training courses able to spend money in the town centre at other businesses.”

The terraced office is a grade II listed building and can trace its history all the way back to 1790.

It is part of a conservation area including Wood Street, Silverwell Street and part of Bradshawgate, which contains various historic legal offices.

In November last year, Diamond Buses opened its new headquarters on Silverwell Street, also in a historic former solicitors office, and has bought the Wood Street building to train drivers.

The Silverwell Street building had previously been abandoned for many years but together with the Wood Street centre, Diamond Buses will hope to train drivers from all over the country.

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The company has also said that they hope to preserve the historic character of the building where their new training centre will be built.

Cllr Silvester said: “The proposals do not alter the exterior of the building, and the limited alterations proposed internally, would maintain the remaining existing heritage features.

“The internal walls proposed to be demolished are not original.”

The council will aim to decide whether or not to approve the bid by Wednesday November 27.