Our association with Merchants Quarter in Bolton town centre stems from ongoing dialogue with Bolton Council and an agreement with them enabling us to prepare a Masterplan for this area of the town, having already had involvement in two redevelopment projects in the locality.

The area comprises several old, dilapidated mill buildings which at one time was the town’s vibrant industrial hub with a mix of Engineering and Textile businesses housed in buildings typical of the Victorian era. Unfortunately, the area had become grossly neglected through a combination of factors such as the decline of the cotton industry, deterioration of the buildings’ demographic patterns and the over-riding anti-social characteristics that are commonly associated with declining inner-city areas. This resulted in several empty buildings and vacant sites occupying the streets, resulting in low pedestrian flow and increased anti-social behaviour.

As such, the area had become a major problem for the Council in that the prevailing decay, deterioration of buildings and moral had reached a serious level of neglect and concern. We were asked to create a Masterplan demonstrating positive, regeneration initiatives that would transform the area making it attractive to investors, businesses and visitors.

We identified the strongly defined grid-iron plan of the area as both a problem and an opportunity. There was cohesion in the Townscape but restrictive space along the street frontages and between buildings. It was soon established that none of the existing streets or areas provided an opportunity for the creation of space that could be the fulcrum of the regeneration programme. We therefore advised the Council that they must intervene and use compulsory powers to acquire buildings and land that would provide the flexibility to unlock the spatial, economic and urban design problems.

We recognised that the existing owners of land and buildings in the locality would be reluctant to participate, particularly if they were to lose space or buildings. Therefore, we presented a proposal from which all parties would benefit.

This involved the significant widening of the main thoroughfare (Shiffnall Street) and compensating the owners of the existing buildings along the street frontage by granting planning permissions for high rise development of their site resulting in additional floor area.

The proposed introduction of medium to high rise buildings will provide strong definition to these streets; the introduction of garden terraces will provide space, light and valuable visual and physical amenities for occupants to enjoy whilst providing distance, scale and proportion in the relationship between the proposed structures.

The further introduction of extensive stepped roof gardens for residents will provide an inspiring, uplifting amenity in contrast to the buzz of the pedestrian street below.

It is envisaged that the vitality generated at street level by the interaction of people will be enhanced by sensitive townscape solutions and initiatives.

Street design will only be successful if the streets are used. Therefore, niche shopping and service and convenience shopping are important for residents and footfall, reinforced by establishing bars, restaurants, studios, street art and architecture that people can identify with, respond to and be proud of. The vibrance of which would resonate with visitors generating atmosphere, investment and tourism.

The combination of hard and soft landscaping, street furniture, signage, fabrics, planting, light, space, music, dance and atmosphere will consolidate the desirability of a particular space. The pedestrianisation and upgrading of both Shiffnall St and Saville St, together with the introduction of civic spaces and
buildings, will secure the future of this locality for generations.

The design initiatives and innovations proposed are a direct response to the council’s visionary SPD for the area. It is recognised that only a comprehensive regeneration of this locality will deliver the success and ensure continuity of harmony necessary for this part of Bolton to evolve as a place where values are safe-guarded and participation is desirable.

We value our Masterplanning prowess and architectural innovation as elite attributes and components to our success. The optimization of use of space, together with these architectural qualities enables us and our development partners to unlock the potential to significantly transform our urban environments and the way we live, work and interact with our surroundings. Masterplan proposals are not merely blueprints for construction but rather visionary roadmaps that embody the evolving needs and aspirations of
communities and societies.

Architectural innovation plays a pivotal role in masterplan proposals as it encourages the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, sustainable design practices and creative aesthetics. These innovations can enhance the functionality, efficiency and aesthetic appeal of urban spaces, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents. Whether it’s the integration of renewable energy sources, the use of smart materials, or the creation of unique landmarks, architectural innovation adds value and uniqueness to masterplan projects.

The strategic utilization of space within masterplan proposals is equally vital. Maximizing space efficiency not only promotes sustainable land use but also fosters a sense of community, connectivity, and well-being. When spaces are designed to be flexible, adaptable, and inclusive, they can accommodate a
variety of activities and promote social interaction. Moreover, well-planned green spaces, pedestrian-friendly zones and mixed-use developments can contribute to a more harmonious and enjoyable urban experience.

In essence, masterplan proposals that embrace architectural innovation and prioritize the effective use of space have the power to shape the future of our cities. They provide opportunities to create vibrant, sustainable and inclusive urban environments that cater to the evolving needs and desires of the people who inhabit them. As we continue to confront the challenges of urbanization and environmental sustainability, it is imperative that we embrace innovative architectural approaches and thoughtful spatial planning in our masterplan proposals to create cities that are not only functional but also inspiring and enriching for generations to come.